Chanel has collaborated with Yéol Korean Heritage Preservation Society for the second consecutive year to support local traditional crafts.
An exhibition titled “Woobomanri: An Enduring Walk Towards Purity” opened Friday and runs through Sept. 23 at Yéol Bukchonga and annex in Bukchon, northern Seoul.
The showcase will coincide with Seoul Fashion Week and Frieze Seoul, which runs from Sept. 5 to 9, and Sept. 6 to 9, respectively.
Works of two South Korean artists are featured in the show. Han Gi Deok, a “hwagak” specialist, was named Yéol Master of the Year, and ceramist Kim Dong Jun was chosen Yéol Young Craftsman of the Year. “Hwagak” is a delicate ox horn inlaying technique that is South Korea’s Important Cultural Property No. 109.
Courtesy
Han Gi Deok
Kim Dong Jun
Pieces from the show includes furniture, light fixtures, baekia porcelain, moon jars and tableware.
“It seems that rapid-fire change and ceaseless competition have become staples of our modern life,” said the show’s director Teo Yang, the first Korean architect to be featured in Architectural Digest’s AD100 list. “Craftwork walks its path without complaint, one step removed from the workings of the world, quietly carrying out the role of conveying to us the values that are being forgotten.”
Last year, Chanel signed a five-year partnership agreement with Yéol to sponsor the annual awards and exhibition. Yéol is a private foundation endorsed by South Korea’s Cultural Heritage Administration. Since 2013, it has funded seasoned holders of intangible cultural properties and budding artists or designers. The two awarded artists also co-launch a new line of products that fuse centuries-old craftsmanship and contemporary design.
“The Yéol Project adds a designer’s touch to the artisan’s skills, breathing new life into their craft by granting it new form,” said Kim Young M’Young, chair of Yéol. The show venue, a modern structure with an annex based on a hanok, or traditional Korean house, also reflects the concept of the project.
“It is meaningful to be able to present the fruits of these craftsmen’s efforts for the second year with Chanel,” added Kim.