The Muckenthaler Cultural Center takes the Fullerton community on a journey through Korea, bringing one of its most ancient contemporary art forms; Hanji.

To celebrate the art form The Muck opened their Hanji: Contemporary Korean Paper Art gallery on Thursday.

Hanji is handmade paper made from the inner bark of a mulberry tree.

The gallery hosted artwork from 6 artists; Young Hoon Kim, Dong Hyun Chung, Soon Ok Ahn, Jong Kook Lee, Theresa Hwang, and Yoonsook B. Ryang, all of whom brought a unique style that diversified the exhibit.

Zoot Velasco, Executive Director of the Muckenthaler, had a very warm introduction and welcome for the artists and hopes to bring inspiration to the community through their art. Velasco hopes to always attract newcomers by hosting events that appeal to the diverse populations in the area.

“The Muckenthaler is one of the last institutes in southern California that still teaches the fine arts and crafts that are under-appreciated” Velasco said.

Velasco added that the Fullerton community has a very diverse population that enjoys different forms of art, from different cultures and of all ages.

All of the artists mention that their inspiration stems from their homeland in Korea. Hanji can be a difficult process that takes time and patience as some of the artist mentioned that an artwork can take anywhere from two weeks to a year to finish.

Without an ounce of silence it was evident that the art goers enjoyed the gallery as they discussed and viewed each piece while enjoying some of the Korean finger foods that were offered.

Kay Pullen was amongst the art goers and describes an art piece from Young Hoon Kim as a beautiful work to observe.

“The art is beautiful and very lyrical,” Pullen said. “As an artist myself I appreciate the combinations of nature and typography in this art work.”

The Muckenthaler’s purpose in bringing the modern and ancient art form is to give the community the opportunity to learn new things from an ancient culture.

Artist Dong Hyun Chung has been painting all her life and began using Hanji as an art form a couple of years ago.

Chung mentioned that Hanji has given her strength as an individual and the freedom to express herself.

“I always use to hide my true emotions just to express a good image to everybody,” Chung said. “Hangji has given me the courage to express my true emotions.”

Chung added that she enjoys being able to incorporate her culture into the modern world.

The gallery is sponsored Lynn J gallery will be hosted at the Muckenthaler Feb. 6 – April 13.

The Muckenthaler is located at 1201 W. Malvern Ave.