Arts & Culture
The root of cultures can be visualized through the development of centuries of traditional arts and crafts. One of the most ancient forms in Korea comes from 'Hanji.' 'Hanji' is a traditional paper made from the bark of mulberry and can retain its original strength and color for centuries. Folded into numerous types of decorations including the shapes of dolls and dresses. Japan also holds a plethora of unique crafting techniques in the Asian continent. Shibori textile and carbon steel manufacturing processes are examples of technologies sought after by many other countries, as well as the beautiful range of paintings, calligraphy, and other crafts that have become so well known around the world.
Another aspect you will quickly realize in Korea and Japan is that theatre was and still is important in society. From Korea's traditional percussion dance performance, 'Samulnori,' to Japan's 'Bon Odori' classical dance, you will feel the grace and beauty of movements and sound. Despite technology accelerating at such a fast speed in both countries, neither of them has forgotten their hearts in the art of performance.
In our upcoming programs, we will introduce you to a variety of artisans and performers that give a well-balanced understanding of all the traditional arts available in Korea and Japan. From understanding the strokes of calligraphy to the movements of cultural musicals, we hope to give you a great glimpse of how traditional arts have been preserved.
You will also get a chance to see numerous performances ranging from dances to plays, but also go hands on and see through the eyes of the performers. You can play instruments, participate in dance practice at your discretion, and slowly begin to understand the rich history behind one of the most active and passionate forms of art.