The phrase “less is more” is rarely more apt than when used to describe buncheong, a style of ceramics that originated in Korea in the 15th century and is revered for its distinctive style, characterised by a blue-green tone and intricate decorative designs.
Once flourishing in Korea, buncheong all but disappeared from the country following the killing and abduction of ceramic artists during Japanese invasions in the 1590s, and was almost entirely replaced by porcelain from the 16th century.
Today, a growing movement of contemporary potters in South Korea and Japan is keeping the buncheong tradition alive. Seoul-based artist Huh Sangwook is one of them.
“Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and intricate techniques of buncheong through a display of Huh’s exceptional works,” says Liz Lau, owner of Lump Studio.
Those keen to delve deeper into the art can join a three-day masterclass (June 8 to 10) covering buncheong techniques including sanggam (inlay), bakji (sgraffito, or scratching), and inhwa (stamping), with participants creating their own pieces under Huh’s guidance.
Looking to the past and learning traditional methods to create modern pieces is important, says Huh, who is known for his animated motifs and sgraffito technique, where the surface of a clay vessel that has been painted white is scraped to reveal the darker layer beneath.
Huh’s work has been exhibited by institutions around the world, including London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, the National Ethnographic Museum in Warsaw, Poland, and Geneva’s Musée Ariana.
“My inspiration mostly comes from Korean tradition and also from nature,” says Huh. “I’m very happy and grateful to have this opportunity to introduce the Korean tradition inspired by nature to Hong Kong.”
For details, visit instagram.com/lumpstudio.