Forgotten Women Artists in Korea During the Colonial Period

The first group of Korean women artists to receive modern art training appeared in the 1910s and 1920s. These women—mostly embroiders but also painters—attended high school in Korea and pursued further artistic training in Japan. There, most attended Joshibi University of Arts and Design, a private women’s school of fine arts in Tokyo, established in 1900. During the colonial period (1910-1945) there were about 180 Korean graduates; however, except for the first female Western-style painter, Na Hye-seok, Korean women artists during the colonial period are largely unknown. My presentation sheds light on these “forgotten” women artists and their artwork. I trace their family, social, and educational background, as well as their artistic training. Their careers after graduation, and the challenges they faced, are also examined in cultural and political contexts. Finally, the artistic legacy and influence of this group is explored.