Join the KCC for a craft workshop exploring Jogakbo. You’ll delve into the history of this patchwork craft and get a hands-on experience of these cultural treasures.
Jogakbo (조각보) is a traditional Korean form of patchwork. It’s an art of creating a larger cloth by sewing together small, leftover scraps of fabric, typically in a geometric pattern.
Key characteristics and history of Jogakbo:
- Origin: Jogakbo originated during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) in Korea. It was a practice born out of a philosophy of frugality and simplicity, where women would repurpose fabric scraps from making clothing and household items rather than discarding them.
- Purpose: The most common use for a Jogakbo was to create bojagi, which are traditional Korean wrapping cloths. Bojagi were used for a variety of domestic purposes, such as wrapping gifts, covering food, or carrying items.
- Aesthetic: Jogakbo is known for its distinctive and modern-looking abstract patterns, which often resemble a ‘windowpane’ due to the stitching technique. The geometric designs are created improvisationally as the artist pieces together scraps of different shapes, sizes, and colours.
- Cultural Significance: Beyond its practical use, Jogakbo also holds a cultural significance. It was a creative outlet for women during a time when their lives were largely confined to the domestic sphere. The finished pieces often tell a story, with the scraps coming from significant garments like wedding dresses or official uniforms, making them a type of family heirloom.
This event provides a fun and engaging opportunity to explore traditional Korean culture through hands-on activities.