E2024-G068

Traditional Crafts of Gwangju: The Living Hands of Master Artisans

Narrative

The traditional crafts of Gwangju represent an invaluable intangible heritage that has preserved the region’s craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility over generations. The traditional crafts designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Gwangju Metropolitan City include najeonchiljang (lacquerware inlaid with mother-of-pearl), akgijang (musical instrument making), cheongja dogong (celadon pottery making), [[탱화장|taenghwajang (Buddhist painting), and piljang (brush making). Najeonchiljang is the craft of decorating lacquered surfaces with intricate patterns made from shells such as conch, abalone, and clam, a tradition that has been handed down in Gwangju for centuries. In the field of celadon pottery, Jo Gi-jeong (1937-2007) founded Mudeung Ceramics and revived the artistry and techniques of Goryeo celadon in a modern context. His son, Jo Jang-hyeon, continues his legacy as the current head of the workshop. Brush making refers to both the technique and the artisans who create Gwangju’s renowned Jindari brushes. First crafted by An Jae-hwan and now carried on by his descendant An Myeong-hwan, the Jindari brush has been regarded as the finest of its kind by prominent calligraphers and literati painters, including Heo Baek-ryeon (1891-1977). Alongside these, Buddhist painting and musical instrument making continue to be practiced and transmitted, affirming Gwangju’s identity as a city deeply rooted in the artistry of traditional craftsmanship.