From the 1st of July until the 31st of July, anyone in Warsaw has the unique opportunity to admire the beautiful Korean lanterns. This captivating exhibition is part of the Korean Heritage Month by UNESCO and is graciously hosted by the Śródmieście Cultural Center. The event is co-organized by the Korean Cultural Center, highlighting the collaborative efforts to bring Korean cultural heritage closer to the Polish audience.
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I had the honor of participating in the inauguration of the exhibition, which took place in the evening on Monday, July 1st. The opening was graced by the presence of the Program Director of the Cultural Center, the Project Manager at the Korean Cultural Center in Warsaw, and the artist himself, Mr. Jang Jin-ik. They each gave inspiring speeches, highlighting the cultural significance of the lanterns and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in their creation. The ceremonial illumination of the lanterns by Mr. Jang Jin-ik and others was a deeply symbolic gesture, marking the official commencement of the exhibition and bathing the venue in a warm, ethereal glow.
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Together with numerous guests, we had the privilege of being among the first to behold the intricately crafted lanterns, which are truly works of art. Each lantern tells a story and serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of Korean culture. Lanterns are an integral part of Buddha's birthday celebrations. The festival dedicated to them, known as Yeondeung, takes place on the eighth day of the fourth month of the lunar calendar. On this special day, all of Korea is illuminated by stunning lanterns of various shapes, transforming the landscape into a sea of light. The most iconic lantern is shaped like a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. These lanterns are predominantly used during Buddha's celebrations to honor his teachings. The main streets of cities are adorned with a dazzling array of lanterns, and as night falls, grand parades are organized, where spectators are treated to a mesmerizing display of lanterns in all shapes and sizes. In addition to this annual festivity, hanging lanterns in front of homes is a cherished tradition believed to attract good energy and happiness to families.
Creating these exquisite lanterns involves the use of hanji (Korean: 한지), a traditional Korean paper revered for its exceptional strength and versatility. Hanji is made from the bark of the paper mulberry tree and the mucilage of hibiscus roots, and it is renowned for its remarkable durability, even under harsh weather conditions. What's particularly fascinating about hanji is its permeability to light and air, which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also allows it to revert to its original form after getting wet, making it a highly valued material in Korean culture. The intricate process of making hanji lanterns reflects the deep respect Koreans have for nature and their heritage.
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The exhibition itself is a journey into the heart of Korean culture and is divided into two distinct sections: the 'Sanctuary of Peace' zone and the café space. The 'Sanctuary of Peace' zone features four magnificent lanterns: the Temple Bell, the Beop-go (a traditional Korean drum), the Wooden Fish, and the Cloud-shaped Gong. Each lantern in this zone is crafted with a profound sense of spirituality and respect for tradition, offering a serene and contemplative experience for visitors. In the café space, visitors can enjoy a more casual and interactive environment, where they can see an owl-shaped lantern, intricately designed lotus flowers, and poles adorned with various lanterns, each reflecting a different aspect of Korean artistry and symbolism.
During the opening, we were among the first to witness the stunning display of lanterns. The event not only provided a visual feast but also an opportunity to delve into the cultural significance behind each piece. The enchanting ambiance created by the lanterns, coupled with the insightful commentary from the organizers, offered a deeper understanding of Korean heritage and its artistic expressions.
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The exhibition goes beyond mere aesthetics; it invites visitors to reflect on the themes of light, peace, and cultural unity. It serves as a bridge between Polish and Korean cultures, fostering appreciation and understanding through the shared experience of art. The lanterns, with their radiant beauty and profound symbolism, remind us of the universal values that bind us together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.
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I warmly invite everyone living in Warsaw and the surrounding areas to come and see this wonderful exhibition.
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