Minhwa Workshop: Four Weeks of Traditional Korean Folk Painting

In this Korean folk painting class, students will experience the entire painting process using traditional materials. They will begin by drawing the outline and then learn step-by-step coloring techniques, focusing on smooth gradation to create rich, vibrant layers. Through these processes, students complete a beautiful traditional Minhwa painting.

“Hwajupdo” (Butterfly and Flower) is a popular Minhwa painting form that represents harmony of family or couples. In this four-week class, students will complete their own Hwajupdo painting step by step, experiencing the entire painting process using traditional materials. The materials include richly saturated watercolors, and hanji, a high-quality mulberry paper, mounted on an artist wood panel. Their finished artwork can be used to decorate any space, bringing joy and positivity.

Students will begin by drawing the outline and then learn step-by-step coloring techniques, focusing on smooth gradation to create rich, vibrant layers. Through these processes , students complete a beautiful traditional Minhwa painting.

Week 1 [May 04]: Create a sketch in your own style or use a general sketch and transfer onto traditional Korean paper.

Week 2 [May 11]: Apply base colors and begin the first layer of color gradation.

Week 3 [May 18]: Build up multiple layers to achieve rich, vibrant colors.

Week 4 [May 25]: Refine details and add final touches.

All materials are provided.

Workshop dates: May 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th from 1:00PM-3:00PM

About the artist: Heekyung Seo is a Seattle-based artist originally from Korea. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Korean painting from Kyung-gi University, and has been active in modern and abstract painting for over a decade. In addition to creating her own art, Heekyung Seo also shares her passion by teaching Korean folk painting (Minhwa) classes at her studio.