General Information

Title: Monk Artisans of the Joseon Dynasty: Buddhist Sculptures and Paintings

Period: December 7 (Tue.), 2021 – March 6 (Sun.), 2022

Venue: Special Exhibition Gallery, National Museum of Korea

When looking at a work, beyond just its use and meaning, we sometimes wonder about its creator. Many works from the past that are considered art today were produced by artisans. A consider-able number of Buddhist artworks for worshipping the Buddha, performing rituals, and adorning Buddhist halls were produced by monk artisans.

Monk artisans assumed a dual identity as an ascetic in the Buddhist priesthood and a professional maker. They pursued enlightenment and satisfaction both as a monk and an artist. This exhibition aims to broaden our understanding of Joseon-era Buddhist culture by shedding light on the monk artisans who created Buddhist art and the spaces in which they pursued their vocation.

The story of monk artisans begins from their hands. With skills developed through daily practice, something that surpasses inborn talent, monk artisans materialized a Buddhist world that touched the hearts of viewers. The sculptures and paintings produced by monk artisans embody religious sanctity and reflect the process of these monks’ growth. We cordially invite you to the beautiful ideal world of faith dreamt of by monk artisans wherever they worked.
 
※ Vaccine pass required at the museum
 - From Dec. 13, 2021 to Jan. 2, 2022
 - Visitors who have passed 14days after completion of vaccination are allowed entry.
   (Exceptions for young people under the age of 18 until Feb. 28, 2022)