Nature has bestowed upon us a plethora of gifts that enrich our lives, and among them, Ottchil stands out as one of its finest offerings. This remarkable substance seamlessly blends beauty and functionality, boasting captivating colours, smooth luster, and exceptional preservation properties. For over 2,000 years, Korea has been at the forefront of Ottchil technology, tailoring its applications to the unique characteristics of various materials including metal, ceramics, leather, paper, and wood. Ottchil plays a pivotal role in enhancing the durability and preservation of sensitive materials such as wood and paper, which are susceptible to the effects of temperature, humidity, and pests. Moreover, when applied to the surfaces of metal or leather, Ottchil acts as a formidable shield against corrosion and decay. Woven deeply into the fabric of our lives, Ottchil’s excellence was discovered by our ancestors, who recognised its myriad benefits. They ingeniously incorporated Ottchil into everyday items, ranging from tableware and utensils to jewelry and weapons. The Ott tree (lacquer tree), the source of Ottchil, is predominantly found in Asia—particularly in Korea, China, and Japan. Korea, blessed with both a conducive natural environment and advanced technology, excels in harvesting high-quality lacquer. Building upon this legacy, the art of Ottchil has been carefully handed down across generations by dedicated craftsmen, ensuring that the intricate craftsmanship of Ottchil objects is preserved and cherished by their descendants. The process involves meticulous painting and drying, repeated over 20 times. This results in Ottchil pieces that boast a distinctive smooth surface texture and a captivating luster. The charm of Ottchil lies in this prolonged waiting period, a testament to the patience and reverence our ancestors had for this craft. They held Ottchil close, cherishing and appreciating it, and it seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of Koreans, fostering a harmonious existence between people and nature. The inherent beauty of Ottchil is manifested in its natural luster and rich colours, which enhance the texture of the material. The intricate details, reflecting the shimmering light of mother-of-pearl, distinguish Korean lacquerware as one of the world’s most exceptional crafts. These hallmarks have enriched the lives of Koreans throughout the ages.

Delving into Korea’s rich lacquerware heritage, the exhibition showcases nineteenth-century Ottchil artifacts from the Coreana Cosmetics Museum. Highlighting the traditional Ottchil technique, it presents works by skilled cultural heritage artisans and contemporary artists adapting to the changing times. This curated display serves as a captivating window to share Korea’s timeless culture, often hailed as the “art of time.” Witnessing its enduring beauty, visitors can appreciate how it continues to radiate through both the past and present, seamlessly transcending temporal and spatial boundaries.

Ottchil: Light from Nature

자연의 빛, 옻칠

22 March - 21 June 2024

Korean Cultural Centre Australia

Hosted by 

Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE)

Organized by

Korean Cultural Centre Australia

Australian Design Centre

Curated by

Coreana Cosmetics Museum

Supported by

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea

Cooperated with

Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation

Works by

Shon Dae Hyun

Kim Dong Wan

Kim Hyun Ju

Park Sung Youl

Chun In Soo

Jeong Zik Seong