An exhibition is currently mounted at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Philippine-Korean bilateral relations.
Art enthusiasts from the local scene, along with select VIPs and guests filled the MET’s lobby on Nov. 14 for the Korean Life Aesthetics exhibition.
The simple yet tasteful exhibit is organized by the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines with renowned artist group, Korea Craft and Design Foundation (KCDF).
The event began with a commemorative fan dance performance from the traditional Korean dance group, Nara Team. MET president Tina Colayco formally opened the night with a speech highlighting the creativity of the artists, followed by KCDF president Choi Bong-hyun and KCC director Lee Jin-cheol, who both congratulated the artists for their passion and commitment to their crafts.
Set in a hanok, the Korean traditional house, the exhibit features contemporary design and crafts in the form of furniture and household objects that mirror Korean aesthetics.
Exhibit director Jin Hyo-Seung toured the guests to the exhibition hall, expertly explaining the inspiration and hard work behind all four areas of it, namely, Elegant Boudoir, Simple Study, Table Set of Accommodation, and Naturalistic Rest.
Several participants got to have a more in-depth knowledge about the exhibit and the artist’s artworks during the educational program on Nov. 16.
Artists Kim Wankyu, Lee Hun-chung, Kang Shin-jae, and Kin In-ja ably talked about their crafts and shared some history about wood work, ceramics, and the famous Korean national costume, Hanbok.
Korean Life Aesthetics will run until Jan. 31, 2020 at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.