#South Korea #Cheongju #Cheongju Biennale #Craft Exhibition #Re_Crafting Tomorrow

Cheongju Craft Biennale 2025: A World of Art and Community

The Cheongju Craft Biennale 2025 is set to open its doors on September 4, embarking on an expansive 60-day journey that celebrates creativity, community, and craftsmanship. With an impressive participation of 1,300 artists from 72 countries, the event will showcase more than 2,500 unique art pieces, making it an unprecedented spectacle on the global craft stage. This year's theme, _Re_Crafting Tomorrow_, underscores the Biennale's dedication to exploring the intersection of craft, art, and design, while addressing significant inquiries about the future of our planet.

A Meaningful Theme

The theme _Re_Crafting Tomorrow_ resonates with the foundational elements of human existence, revolving around cooking, clothing, and shelter, which have historically shaped our way of life. The Biennale seeks to weave these elements between art, design, and architecture, as a way to connect human beings with nature and material culture, raising critical questions about our shared future.

During a pre-launch tour for media members, attendees praised the meticulous design and execution of the exhibition spaces. They noted that the arrangements were akin to a grand architectural marvel, both sensory and deeply engaging.

Inclusive Art and Community Engagement

The main exhibition, titled “How does universal civilization evolve through aestheticism to become craft that coexists with communities?”, challenges viewers to consider what role craft can play in a digital age characterized by rapid consumption, environmental degradation, and the complications of luxury and disposability. Artistic Director Kang Jae-young articulated that this exhibition portrays how craft has evolved from a fundamental part of human survival to a practice that is now deeply intertwined with communities.

The exhibition includes four subthemes:

• - Crafts as Metaculture
• - Crafts for Aestheticians
• - Crafts for All Beings
• - Craft with Communities

Each section features works from 148 artists across 55 teams representing 16 countries, that portray diverse narratives and interpretations of craftsmanship in our contemporary age.

Special Exhibitions to Explore

In addition to the main showcase, the Biennale will feature special exhibits like the Hyundai Translocal Series Entangled and Woven, marking a new initiative to foster international artistic collaboration. This exhibit critically examines the connections between textile art and communities in Korea and India, showcasing new works from both regions along with historical textiles that highlight the rich cultural narratives embedded in fabric. Featured artists include Yeonsoon CHANG, Youngin HONG, Somi KO, and Jounghye YOO, each contributing their interpretation to the theme of craft and community engagement.

Another notable highlight is the Seongpa Seonye Exhibition, dedicated to the artistic journey of Venerable Seongpa, showcasing his calligraphy, ceramics, and a monumental 100-meter long hanji work, inviting viewers into a contemplative space.

Celebrating Thailand’s Craft Heritage

A focal point of this Biennale is the Invited Country Exhibition featuring Thailand. Curated by Gridthiya Gaweewong, this showcase underscores Thailand’s rich craft traditions that have maintained their unique essence amidst globalization and commercial pressures. The exhibition, titled “Living in an Elastic Time,” is divided into three sections that explore the evolving nature of craft in contemporary society.

Additionally, the Thai Culture Week, running from September 9 to 14, promises engaging events and activities highlighting traditional Thai craftsmanship.

A Warm Invitation to All

Mayor Lee Beom-seok emphasized the significance of this Biennale, inviting everyone to engage in a celebratory atmosphere that connects craftsmanship with environmental consciousness and social healing. Throughout its 60-day run from September 4 to November 2, the Biennale will be held at the Culture Factory and various locations across Cheongju, operating daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., closed on Mondays.

This event not only underscores Cheongju's recognition as a World Craft City but also reinforces its commitment to promoting the cultural significance of crafts. Cheongju is also famously home to Jikji, the world’s oldest metal movable type, cementing its status as a significant cultural hub.

Join us in this incredible journey of craft, creativity, and community at the Cheongju Craft Biennale 2025!