This week in art class, students explored Korean traditional ink painting by creating their own artwork on folding fans using black ink. This hands-on activity introduced them to classic Korean aesthetics and helped them develop brush control, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for traditional art.
We learned about Sumukhwa (수묵화), a style of painting that uses black ink and expressive brushstrokes instead of bright colours. We explored traditional Korean subjects like pine trees (strength), bamboo (honesty), birds (freedom), and flowers (beauty and seasons), and talked about what they symbolize.
Students practiced using brushes to create different lines and textures, focusing on rhythm, movement, and natural expression. Each student painted a nature-inspired scene on a traditional-style paper fan, not just copying but expressing their own interpretation through confident brushwork.
The results were beautiful and unique—some featured delicate birds, others showed bold trees or blooming flowers. The project also introduced the idea of art as something both useful and beautiful, just like traditional fans in Korean culture.
It was a wonderful way to connect with Korean heritage, and the students did an amazing job expressing both skill and emotion through their art. Great work, everyone!
