The “Moon Jar” series is represented in the new exhibition of Hanji works. (photo courtesy of KCCLA)

The Korean Cultural Center Los Angeles, in collaboration with the Dongduk Women’s University Museum, presents the special exhibition “Hanji: The Past and Present” from Thursday, Aug. 29, through Thursday, Sept. 19. An opening reception will be held on Aug. 29 from 6-8 p.m. in the Korean Cultural Center’s Art Gallery, 5505 Wilshire Blvd.

The exhibition, the third in a series of traditional Korean art showcases promoting traditional Korean arts beyond popular culture, fosters a deeper understanding of Korean art. Hanji is a traditional type of handmade Korean paper. The exhibition was specially curated to highlight the excellence and charm of Hanji, one of Korea’s representative traditional heritages.

“Hanji: The Past and Present,” being held for the first time in North America, results from a long-term collaboration with professor Lee Seung Chul of Dongduk Women’s University, a traditional Hanji researcher and a scholar at Kansong Art Museum. Lee previously presented Hanji exhibitions in France, Italy, Austria and Hungary.

The exhibition introduces the history and tradition of Hanji, showcasing its historical journey and modern art pieces. It offers a comprehensive view of Hanji’s past and present through displays, including Hanji relics, basrelief works and installation art. The exhibition features a variety of Hanji-based relief works, including the “Moon Jar” series, “Buddha (Thousand Buddhas),” “Buddha (Manjusri Bodhisattva),” “Jesus Statue” and “Bandaji (Korean Cabinet).” The exhibit also includes Hanji relics such as clothes, woven paper bags, traditional lanterns and water bottles. On Thursday, Sept. 19, Lee will conduct a Hanji-making demonstration and workshop for students and faculty at Otis College of Art and Design.

“This exhibition, the first of its kind in North America, offers visitors a valuable opportunity to explore the past and present of Hanji through Korean relics and contemporary works that I have researched and collected over the past 30 years,” Lee said. “I hope the Korean American community shows interest, encouragement and warm support for this special exhibition in L.A.”

“Both the government and private sector are actively working towards registering Hanji as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage,” KCCLA director Sangwon Jung said. “I hope that during the exhibition, many people will take the opportunity to experience the footsteps of our traditional Hanji and the infinite possibilities and diversity of Hanji art.”

KCCLA is located at 5505 Wilshire Blvd. for information, visit kccla.org.