Onjium, the acclaimed Korean cultural heritage research institute, is poised to unveil its exhibition ‘Ra, Weaving Light’ on April 9. Located in the Arumjigi building, Tongui-dong, Jongno District, Seoul, this exhibition showcases the delicate art of ra, a traditional sheer fabric gauze, entwined with modernity.
Featuring approximately 20 pieces of contemporary hanbok crafted from ra, this showcase is a collaboration with OMA Space, a design studio spanning Korea and France. Each hanbok emphasises ra’s ethereal qualities, silky textures, and muted tones, merging ancient techniques from the Goryeo Dynasty with innovative knitwear skills, thereby celebrating comfort in day-to-day wear rather than merely formal attire.
OMA Studio remarked that “Light that projects through woven ra is more than just an optical phenomenon; it becomes a sensory experience,” suggesting that the garments create a dialogue between the tangible and the intangible. Additionally, Onjium asserts that even contemporary hanbok must adhere to classic guidelines: they consist of two pieces (top and bottom) and predominantly maintain the caftan structure, distinguishing them from other traditional attire like Japan’s kimono and China’s qipao.
This exquisite exhibition runs until April 27, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, allowing visitors to try on and even purchase the unique hanbok displayed.
Onjium is hosting an exhibition titled ‘Ra, Weaving Light’ starting April 9, showcasing contemporary hanbok made from traditional ra fabric. The display highlights around 20 pieces designed in collaboration with OMA Space, focusing on the material’s translucency and modern craftsmanship. The exhibition runs until April 27, inviting visitors to explore, try on, and purchase hanbok while emphasising cultural heritage.
The upcoming exhibition by Onjium, ‘Ra, Weaving Light’, elegantly blends traditional and contemporary elements of Korean culture through the artistry of ra fabric. Highlighting the significance of the hanbok’s structure, this exhibit not only showcases innovative designs but also maintains a deep-rooted respect for cultural heritage. Visitors are invited to engage with these wearable artworks until April 27, experiencing the unique interplay of light and material.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
