By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee

Twenty-six K-folk painting artists shared the beauty of traditional Korean folk paintings with the world at the Leonardo da Vinci Art Gallery invitational exhibition in Milano, Italy, from Feb. to 10.

The exhibition was a great success, as the works that combine the originality of K-folk paintings with modern sensibilities attracted the attention of European art lovers.

The K-folk painting artists invited to the exhibition presented works based on traditional folk painting techniques with a modern sense, proving the globalization potential of Korean folk paintings.

In particular, the works such as Chaekgado, Hojakdo and Yeonhwado (冊架圖, 虎鵲圖, 蓮花圖), which were interpreted by each artist in their own unique style, left a deep impression on visitors.

A representative from the Leonardo da Vinci Art Gallery commented, “K-folk painting is an art form that is both traditional and contemporary,” and said, “The colors, symbolism, and originality of Korean folk paintings in this exhibition have brought a fresh shock to the European art world.”

In addition to the 26 Korean folk painting artists who participated in the exhibition, 13 Korean artists particiapted in Western paintings, 3 in crafts, and 115 in group exhibitions. The artists prepared a variety of works with the goal of globalizing Korean folk paintings, and in particular, works that incorporated modern aesthetics and storytelling while maintaining traditional elements of folk paintings attracted attention.

“The exhibition in Italy confirmed that K-folk paintings can be competitive in the global art market,” said an artist who participated in the exhibition, ”and I would like to continue to spread the beauty of Korean folk paintings through various overseas exhibitions.”

Recently, K-folk paintings have been gaining increasing attention in the global art market through the reinterpretation of traditional Korean culture. In particular, works that incorporate Korean colors and symbolism have attracted the attention of overseas collectors, showing the potential to open up new markets.

This exhibition confirms that Korean folk paintings are becoming more than just a traditional art form, but an art genre with a modern sense. We look forward to seeing how Korean folk paintings will become more widely recognized on the global stage.