The Pursuit of Happiness is an exhibition by the Singapore Association of Minhwa Art (SAMA). SAMA is a group of Korean painters who are dedicated to promote Minhwa, the Korean traditional polychrome paintings, in Singapore. Featuring 10 artists from its members, Minhwa is recognized as a traditional art form, that represents the life of the Korean people during the Joseon dynasty.
Happiness is essentially the main topic of Minhwa. Minhwa is the painting of the people – the commoners, not the professional artists. It has been one of the key elements in decorating our ancestors’ homes and the venue for the people to wish upon their dreams and happiness to come true. The motifs and animals painted in Minhwa are believed to not only keep the evil spirits away, but also bring in good luck and happiness.
Although our lifestyle has changed dramatically from the time when Minhwa was first painted a few hundred years ago, the attitude of pursuing happiness through this colourful and naive styled folk art still remains the same.
Venue: ION Art Gallery, Level 4, ION Orchard, Singapore
When: 22 - 27 Aug 2017,
By: ION Art Gallery