Unfolding Harmony: The Ageless Mastery of Korean Origami with Hanji [Photo Essay Contest]
Published: 08 Dec. 2023, 10:44
Updated: 08 Dec. 2023, 15:13
The Korea JoongAng Daily hosted its first photo essay contest for elementary, middle and high school students on the theme: “Promote the beauty of Korea to foreign countries." The contest ran from October to November. Photos containing scenes of traditional culture, family love, places to see and tasty treats in Korea were submitted for the contest.
Gian Park from NLCS Jeju won the participation prize in the elementary school category for this photo essay.
The ancient technique of paper folding, known as origami, is given a special appeal in Korea by the traditional handmade paper known as hanji. Origami has a long history in Korea, and the country's distinctive designs have developed over time in tandem with cultural influences.
Hanji is the essence of Korean origami, lending it a unique identity and endurance due to its cultural significance. This conventional paper gives each fold more cultural depth in addition to improving its appearance. It becomes a blank canvas on which the creative spirit can paint the essence of Korean ancestry.
Origami is a craft in which Koreans excel exceptionally well and creatively; famous artists and schools have gained international recognition for their contributions. Korean origami artists are very skilled not only in traditional designs but also in creative, modern pieces that exhibit a beautiful fusion of the ancient and the new.
An amazing example of this artistry can be seen in the image above, which features a wolf that has been painstakingly folded from hanji by me. This elaborate origami object not only perfectly depicts the shape of the wolf, but it also serves as a prime example of the flexibility and inventiveness that characterize Korean origami. Exquisitely crafted, it is proof of the adaptability of Korean origami, fusing modern creativity with cultural legacy. This creative project explores innovative, contemporary expressions that skillfully combine the old and the new, going beyond conventional designs.
Origami is ingrained in Korean education and culture. It fosters creativity, patience, and accuracy while also broadening one's understanding of other cultures. It offers important life skills in addition to being a means of artistic expression. Origami is celebrated outside of the classroom during cultural gatherings and festivals, which highlights its importance in Korean society.
In summary, Korean origami with hanji, which combines artistic brilliance, historical roots, and cultural significance, embodies a cultural masterpiece. In addition to showcasing Korea's inventiveness, it also has a distinct charm that appeals to people everywhere. Korean origami is popular all over the world because of its complex folds and cultural symbolism. In perpetuity shall I persist in the meticulous and nuanced art of paper folding, engaging in the venerable practice with an unwavering commitment to the intricate precision and creative finesse inherent in this timeless craft.
By Gian Park, NLCS Jeju
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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