7.2 True-view landscape painting

True-view landscape painting emerged in Korea during the Joseon dynasty, marking a shift from Chinese-influenced idealized landscapes to realistic depictions of Korean scenery. This artistic movement played a crucial role in developing a unique Korean artistic identity, blending indigenous aesthetics with innovative techniques.

Key characteristics of true-view painting include realistic depictions of topographical features, focus on iconic Korean landscapes, and emphasis on local flora and fauna. Notable artists like Jeong Seon and Kim Hong-do pioneered the genre, creating masterpieces that continue to be celebrated for their beauty and cultural significance.

Origins of true-view landscape

• True-view landscape painting emerged as a distinctive Korean art form during the Joseon dynasty, reflecting a shift towards depicting actual Korean scenery
• This artistic movement represented a departure from the traditional Chinese-influenced idealized landscapes, emphasizing realistic portrayals of Korea's natural beauty
• True-view painting played a crucial role in developing a unique Korean artistic identity, blending indigenous aesthetics with innovative techniques

Influence of Chinese painting

Top images from around the web for Influence of Chinese painting

• 

  Document, Depict, Honor, and Express - Traditional Korean Painting - Korea100 View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Korea: The Joseon Dynasty | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Document, Depict, Honor, and Express - Traditional Korean Painting - Korea100 View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Korea: The Joseon Dynasty | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

Top images from around the web for Influence of Chinese painting

• 

  Document, Depict, Honor, and Express - Traditional Korean Painting - Korea100 View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Korea: The Joseon Dynasty | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Document, Depict, Honor, and Express - Traditional Korean Painting - Korea100 View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Korea: The Joseon Dynasty | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

• Chinese landscape painting traditions provided the foundation for Korean artists
• Incorporation of brush techniques and compositional elements from Chinese masters
• Gradual divergence from Chinese ideals towards a more Korea-centric approach
• Adaptation of Chinese painting principles to suit Korean artistic sensibilities
  • Use of softer lines and more muted color palettes
  • Greater emphasis on capturing the essence of specific Korean locations

Emergence in Joseon dynasty

• True-view landscape painting gained prominence during the 18th century Joseon period
• Coincided with a broader cultural movement emphasizing Korean identity and values
• Supported by royal patrons who encouraged the depiction of Korean scenery
• Reflected growing national consciousness and desire for artistic independence
  • Artists began to travel extensively throughout Korea to sketch real landscapes
  • Development of new techniques to accurately capture the unique features of Korean terrain

Key characteristics

• True-view landscape painting revolutionized Korean art by prioritizing realistic depictions of actual Korean scenery
• This style marked a significant departure from earlier idealized landscapes influenced by Chinese traditions
• True-view paintings captured the essence of Korea's natural beauty, fostering a sense of national pride and identity

Realistic depiction of scenery

• Emphasis on accurate portrayal of topographical features and natural elements
• Incorporation of recognizable landmarks and distinct geographical formations
• Use of perspective and shading techniques to create depth and dimensionality
• Attention to seasonal changes and atmospheric conditions in landscape representations

Focus on Korean landscapes

• Depiction of iconic Korean mountains (Geumgangsan, Inwangsan)
• Inclusion of distinctive Korean architectural elements (hanok, Buddhist temples)
• Representation of Korea's diverse ecosystems (coastal areas, forests, rivers)
• Celebration of uniquely Korean natural phenomena (cherry blossoms, autumn foliage)

Emphasis on local features

• Detailed rendering of regional flora and fauna specific to different parts of Korea
• Incorporation of local customs and daily life scenes within the landscape
• Attention to distinctive rock formations and geological characteristics of Korean terrain
• Representation of traditional Korean agricultural practices and rural landscapes

Notable artists

• True-view landscape painting was pioneered and refined by several influential Korean artists
• These painters played a crucial role in establishing the genre and inspiring subsequent generations
• Their works continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of Korean art, showcasing the beauty of the Korean peninsula

Jeong Seon's contributions

• Considered the father of true-view landscape painting in Korea
• Developed the "actual view" technique (jingyeong sansu) for realistic depictions
• Created numerous paintings of famous Korean mountains and scenic spots
• Incorporated elements of both realism and stylization in his works
  • Use of bold brushstrokes to capture the ruggedness of Korean mountains
  • Integration of poetic inscriptions to enhance the emotional impact of his paintings

Kim Hong-do's approach

• Known for his versatility in portraying both landscapes and genre scenes
• Emphasized the harmony between human figures and natural surroundings
• Developed a unique style combining true-view techniques with traditional ink painting
• Focused on capturing the essence of Korean rural life within landscape settings
  • Incorporation of everyday activities and local customs in his paintings
  • Use of subtle humor and keen observation to bring landscapes to life

Techniques and materials

• True-view landscape painters employed a variety of techniques and materials to achieve their realistic depictions
• The choice of materials and methods often reflected the artist's personal style and the specific landscape being portrayed
• Innovations in technique allowed for more accurate representations of Korean scenery

Brush and ink methods

• Use of various brush types to create different textures and lines
• Development of specialized brushstrokes to depict rocks, trees, and water
• Incorporation of "boneless" technique for softer, more atmospheric effects
• Utilization of dry brush technique to create texture and depth
  • Application of ink washes to create gradations and suggest distance
  • Use of dotting techniques to add detail and texture to foliage and rocks

Color vs monochrome styles

• Monochrome ink paintings emphasized form and texture through tonal variations
• Color paintings incorporated natural pigments to enhance realism and vibrancy
• Selective use of color to highlight specific elements within the landscape
• Development of techniques to blend ink and color for subtle atmospheric effects
  • Use of light washes of color over ink outlines to suggest depth and atmosphere
  • Application of opaque colors for emphasis on certain landscape features

Subject matter

• True-view landscape paintings focused on capturing the diverse and beautiful scenery of Korea
• Artists sought to represent both famous landmarks and lesser-known local areas
• The choice of subject matter often reflected the painter's personal experiences and travels

Famous Korean mountains

• Depictions of iconic peaks (Geumgangsan, Seoraksan, Hallasan)
• Emphasis on unique geological formations and seasonal changes
• Incorporation of Buddhist temples and hermitages nestled within mountain landscapes
• Representation of mountain paths and travelers to convey scale and human interaction with nature

Rivers and waterfalls

• Portrayal of major Korean rivers (Han River, Nakdong River)
• Detailed depictions of waterfalls, capturing the movement and power of water
• Inclusion of riverside villages and activities to show the relationship between people and waterways
• Use of mist and atmospheric effects to create a sense of depth and mystery in river scenes

Rural scenes and villages

• Representation of traditional Korean agricultural landscapes (rice paddies, orchards)
• Depiction of hanok villages and their integration with the surrounding nature
• Inclusion of everyday rural activities (farming, fishing, gathering firewood)
• Portrayal of seasonal changes in rural settings, highlighting the cyclical nature of agrarian life

Symbolism and meaning

• True-view landscape paintings often incorporated symbolic elements and deeper meanings
• These works served not only as realistic depictions but also as expressions of cultural and philosophical ideas
• The symbolism in true-view paintings helped to reinforce Korean identity and values

Representation of national identity

• Use of distinctly Korean landscapes to foster a sense of national pride
• Incorporation of historical and cultural landmarks within natural settings
• Emphasis on unique Korean geological features as symbols of national strength
• Portrayal of harmonious relationships between humans and nature, reflecting Korean values
  • Depiction of scholars or hermits in nature, symbolizing the ideal of scholarly retreat
  • Inclusion of traditional Korean activities and customs within landscape scenes

Philosophical underpinnings

• Influence of Neo-Confucian ideas on the representation of nature
• Incorporation of Taoist concepts of harmony and balance in landscape compositions
• Reflection of Buddhist principles through the depiction of temples and natural beauty
• Use of landscape elements as metaphors for human virtues and moral qualities
  • Representation of pine trees as symbols of resilience and longevity
  • Depiction of flowing water as a metaphor for the passage of time and impermanence

True-view vs idealized landscapes

• True-view landscape painting marked a significant shift from earlier idealized landscape traditions
• This new approach emphasized direct observation and realistic representation of Korean scenery
• The contrast between true-view and idealized landscapes reflected changing cultural and artistic values

Departure from Chinese traditions

• Shift away from imaginary or stylized landscapes inspired by Chinese models
• Focus on capturing the unique characteristics of Korean topography
• Development of new techniques to represent distinctly Korean natural features
• Incorporation of local flora, fauna, and architectural elements specific to Korea
  • Use of softer, more rounded forms to depict Korean mountains
  • Representation of native Korean tree species rather than generic foliage

Emphasis on observation

• Importance of first-hand experience and on-site sketching in true-view painting
• Development of techniques to capture atmospheric effects and changing light conditions
• Attention to seasonal variations and their impact on the landscape
• Incorporation of realistic details that reflect the artist's direct observations
  • Inclusion of specific rock formations and geological features unique to Korean landscapes
  • Representation of local weather patterns and their effects on the environment

Influence on Korean art

• True-view landscape painting had a profound and lasting impact on the development of Korean art
• This style influenced subsequent generations of artists and contributed to the formation of a distinct Korean artistic identity
• The principles of true-view painting continue to resonate in contemporary Korean art and culture

Impact on later painting styles

• Inspiration for the development of new genres in Korean painting
• Influence on the evolution of genre painting and portrait art in Korea
• Contribution to the integration of Western techniques in modern Korean landscape painting
• Inspiration for contemporary artists exploring themes of Korean identity and nature
  • Influence on the development of Korean abstract landscape painting
  • Inspiration for modern interpretations of traditional Korean scenery

Role in cultural nationalism

• Reinforcement of Korean cultural identity through visual representation
• Contribution to the preservation and celebration of Korean natural heritage
• Influence on the development of Korean tourism and appreciation of local landscapes
• Use of true-view paintings in promoting Korean culture internationally
  • Incorporation of true-view imagery in modern Korean design and advertising
  • Influence on the development of Korean landscape photography and film

Preservation and study

• The preservation and study of true-view landscape paintings play a crucial role in understanding Korean art history
• Ongoing research and conservation efforts ensure that these important works remain accessible for future generations
• The study of true-view paintings provides insights into historical, cultural, and environmental aspects of Korea

Important collections

• Major Korean museums housing significant true-view landscape collections
• Private collections and international museums with notable examples of the genre
• Digitization efforts to make true-view paintings accessible to a wider audience
• Ongoing conservation projects to preserve and restore important works
  • Use of advanced imaging techniques to study the materials and techniques used by artists
  • Development of specialized storage and display methods to protect delicate paintings

Modern interpretations

• Contemporary artists reinterpreting true-view principles in new media
• Academic research exploring the historical and cultural context of true-view painting
• Integration of true-view concepts in Korean art education and curriculum
• Use of true-view paintings as references for environmental and historical studies
  • Application of digital technology to create virtual reconstructions of historical landscapes
  • Interdisciplinary studies combining art history with geography and environmental science

Legacy and contemporary relevance

• The legacy of true-view landscape painting continues to influence Korean art and culture
• This artistic tradition has gained recognition beyond Korea, contributing to global appreciation of Korean art
• True-view principles remain relevant in contemporary discussions of national identity and environmental awareness

True-view in modern Korean art

• Adaptation of true-view concepts by contemporary Korean painters
• Influence on Korean photography and digital art focusing on landscape themes
• Integration of true-view elements in Korean cinema and visual media
• Use of true-view principles in urban planning and landscape architecture
  • Creation of public art installations inspired by true-view landscape traditions
  • Development of virtual reality experiences based on famous true-view paintings

Global recognition and appreciation

• Inclusion of true-view landscape paintings in major international exhibitions
• Growing interest in Korean art history and techniques among global art communities
• Influence of true-view principles on landscape artists outside of Korea
• Use of true-view paintings in cultural diplomacy and international exchanges
  • Collaboration between Korean and international artists exploring true-view concepts
  • Integration of true-view elements in global discussions on environmental art and sustainability