한국 현대공예가 연구 - 이신자(李信子)-

Abstract

Today the world of contemporary craft faces revolutionary themes in its creative activities and education. These relate to the stream of contemporary Korean craft, initiated around the time of Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945, and the Korean War in 1950. From then to today is a period that has witnessed confrontational politics between left and right, to root out colonial elements, and many examples of drastic industrialization and modernization. The craft community has endured this period, adapting itself, continuing its evolution. And just as our society has witnessed remarkable growth, our craft world has also shown astounding development. In respect to its use value and development, traditional craft is less developed than creative craft, which emphasizes pure Western, modernist aesthetics. This has created an identity problem for craft, causing internal criticism within the craft world. It seems necessary now for the craft world to explore realistic alternatives, pursue creative, pure form, and also craft with practical value, and educational potential. This study explores ways to attain equilibrium through an examination of the history of contemporary craft in Korea, gained from valuable documents recording the living testimony of the first generation of Korean craft artist. Through this examination, we expect to gain insight into what formed the mainstream of contemporary Korean craft, and Korean craft history as a whole. And this will allow us to shed light on the work of these artists. Contemporary craftsman Lee Shin-ja has been chosen to represent the first generation of Korean craft artist as she was recognized early as talented craftsman; she witnessed the growth of contemporary Korean craft as craftsman and educator; she assumed leading role in contemporary Korean craft. The methodology and practice of this study has been conducted through investigation of critical articles, news articles, and interviews with the artists. Based on this material, the impact of these artists on the Korean craft has been clarified. We cannot delay the work of also chronicling their vivid testimonies any longer, concerning the birth and alteration of contemporary Korean craft. Such interviews containing the assessment and prospect of the past, present, and future of contemporary Korean craft can be used as the materials to study and analyze craft history. This study aims to help enhance present and future craft education by preserving such objective materials.