▲ “고려청자 - 만들어지는 과정과 청자의 쇠퇴기.” 네이버 블로그 | 곰대리

 The registration and application period for GICB (Gyeonggi International Ceramic Biennale) 2019 has begun. This competition will be a chance for new artists to establish their presence in the global art scene and expand their world view. Korean pottery has a distinct characteristic among countless ceramics in the world with its serenity and simple but unique features. GICB will be a chance not only for the artists, but also for the public to explore emerging trends in ceramic arts as well as look at the past.

Korea has a long history of pottery especially ceramics, and they were commonly used in the daily lives of people. So, how were the ceramics made? First, ingredients such as clay or sand, were finely crushed. Impurities were removed by sieving them in the water and collecting only fine sediment which was then dried in the shade for a period of time. Second, images are painted or carved into slightly dried pieces. They were allowed to dry out more before they were baked at 600-800°C. Then glaze was applied.

Next wood was placed on the walls on the side of a kiln and the glazed pottery baked at 1,300°C Finally, only the best pieces were selected and kept. However, many people do not know the sad history behind the pottery and how Joseon was a leading producer of celadon or white porcelain in Asia.

▲ Keramiekmarkt in Arita, Japan. Saga Prefecture

 In contrast, Japan did not have the skilled artisan to make celadon and greatly envied Joseon. Thus, Japan was very interested in pottery and the potters of Joseon. In 1592, during the Imjin Japanese Invasion, Japan kidnapped thousand of Joseon farmers and artisans including potters. These potters brought their skills and techniques to Japan, training Japanese artists and creating unique styles of their own. Then in the mid-17th century Japan began exporting its celadon to Europe where it became famous. Many of the renowned Japanese styles can be traced back to Joseon potters, such as, Arita ware, Satsuma ware, and Hagi ware.

All artists are invited to participate in the competition and anyone interested in ceramics can visit the exhibition of previous winners. Explore GICB and appreciate the value in styles of ceramics of the past and future.