One of the most beautiful and impressive techniques I've come across involves the manipulation of paper into art. In Korea, paper art has been a tradition passed down over many generations. The paper is long-fibered and handmade from a mulberry tree (chomok). There are many types of mulberry trees in Korea and because each is different, specific types of paper can be made based on the tree and for a specific purpose. The paper and the art form is known as 한지 (Hanji). Hanji became a very important factor in Korean daily life because it was constantly utilized for everything, from their books to parts of their houses (windows/floors). What's wonderful about Hanji is the fact that it lasts for a long time.
The pictures above are samples of Hanji pieces my mom owns. They were given to her as a gift from her Korean friend, Giein, who makes crafts out of Hanji. These crafts are small snack trays completely made of Hanji paper. The layering of different colored paper, which also differs in texture, creates the images.
If one were asked what word they would associate when they think of Hanji, a word that would most likely come up is doll. Hanji dolls are three-dimensional and are simply amazing. Most of them are created in the likeness of traditional townspeople, (often depicting lives of Koreans in Hanbok). In addition to the other gifts sent to my mom, Giein also made a special Hanji doll for my parent's 22nd wedding anniversary last August. This doll represents a traditional Korean dancer. My mom lovingly named it 별 (Star). Giein is an outstanding Hanji artist and shares many pictures of her work on her blog, so please check it out here.
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