As we have now returned from Korea it has become obvious that travel impacts art and life. The trip has expanded my thinking and my world view. My husband and I traveled to Korea to visit family and came back from Korea appreciating a new culture but also appreciating the freedom that is taken for granted in America. Here are just a few reflections on the latest trip.
Reflections from Korea . . . What a trip! The weather was amazing with the sun shining most days creating beautiful reflections of the autumn leaves in the ponds surrounding the palace we visited in Seoul. There were more . . . reflections to be seen in Korea. Another is the reflection of family members who are not together due to the division of the north from the south as a result of war and conflict. This is something that is constantly on ones mind as we traveled up to the DMZ to see the border and climb through a tunnel built by the North Koreans to invade South Korea. Razor sharp wire as well as guard posts separate us from the quiet, calm river. It is an amazing reflection in itself to realize that the DMZ is now a sanctuary of birds, flowers, trees and wildlife because man is not allowed to set foot on that part of Korea. The crane is just one of these beautiful creatures that inhabits this area. I have already begun to work on capturing the cranes image in my current paintings. We were fortunate to see several in the harvested rice fields around the area.
A third reflection is how we see ourselves when visiting a new country. How are we reflected to the native population. Do we come across as pushy Americans or are we respectful of their country and traditions everywhere we go.
Koreans seemed very friendly and thoughtful in every way. The country is beautiful and may need to be revisited in the spring for further insight but for now I want to explore the reflection in my art and the reflection in my heart so a tiny part of this Asian society will be seen in what I am doing as an artist.
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