Traditional Minhwa Blossoms: Hyejeong Minhwa Artists Celebrate 20th Anniversary Exhibition
Creatrip Team
4 months ago
The Hyejeong Traditional Minhwa Artists Association marked its 20th anniversary with a commemorative exhibition held April 4–9 at Suwon Mansuk Exhibition Hall. Founded in 2006 by artist Kwon Cheong-ja (age 82), the group of 22 members displayed about 80 works of minhwa (Korean folk painting), including Kwon’s folding-screen piece “A Hundred Years Ago: Snow at Gwanggyo (Suwon Eight Views)” and scenes like “The Day of Making Soybean Paste” and “Decorating the Main Room.” The exhibit also honored the late Kwon’s elder sister with floral and peacock paintings. Minhwa is known for its symbolism and humor—examples include hojakdo (tiger and magpie paintings) used as sehwa (New Year pictures) to ward off misfortune and wish for good fortune—reflecting everyday people’s resilience and hope. Kwon emphasized that renewed interest since the 1990s has helped reestablish the value of traditional minhwa and urged visitors to appreciate its simple, rustic beauty amid modern excess.
