Monday, May 4, 2009

Korean Patterns


I find the patterns in Korean clothing, food, and architecture fascinating. When I wrote my middle grade novel on Korea, I had fun incorporating these patterns into the story.

But patterns are more than a shape or color. They convey emotions and meaning. Maybe that's why I like them so much. There's a sense of mystery around them and about those who created them.

This is a design of a peony pattern carved on a diagonal lattice at the Seonghyeolsa temple.


If you'll notice, even Caleb and his friend's hanboks have patterns on them. Clothes with colorful stripped sleeves were worn by children under seven years old. The overcoats are called obangjang durumagi. The name comes from the colors on the coat sleeve symbolizing the five directions.
How about you? Any interesting patterns you've noticed in your life?

11 comments:

Danyelle L. said...

Those are beautiful! I love looking at different cultures and finding patterns (colors, actual patterns, flowers, etc.) that mean different things than they do in mine. :D

PJ Hoover said...

I love finding the patterns in patterns :) And I have to admit Asian patterns are some of the most beautiful I've seen!

C.R. Evers said...

I love patterns too. Those are gorgeous photos that you posted!

I'm drawn to furniture pieces w/ hand carvings. I love furniture w/ intricate designs.

Jen and Steven said...

I've always loved Asian fabrics, architecture and design. Those are some beautiful examples from the temple; I wish I could see them in person! I love the patterns found in my garden. All of the different leaves, flowers and fruits are unique and so interesting to see.

Unknown said...

Love, love, love this. And I so pay attention to patterns! Because I love art and architecture, I always keep my eyes peeled for it.

And, in the end, isn't it these details that make us better writers?

Kimbra Kasch said...

Love the kids outfits. Beautiful colors - beautiful patterns.

Kelly Polark said...

Wow, so colorful! Those are gorgeous patterns (and adorable kids!).

Stacy Nyikos said...

The boys look too cute in their outfits! My girls have ones from Germany that they wear on special occasions. I wish we hadn't lost costumes so much from daily wear. They are so pretty!

Shelli (srjohannes) said...

i love hearing about your world over there :)

Oh my veri word is unded - how appropriate for my post today - spooky.

Ello - Ellen Oh said...

Oh my gosh your boys look too cute!!!!!!!

Danette Haworth said...

Oh yes, the boys look so cute!