The National Museum of Korea presents a thematic exhibition entitled “Calligraphy of Korean Seon Masters: Hanam and Tanheo of Woljeongsa Temple” from April 16 to August 04, 2013 at the Calligraphy Gallery. The exhibits consist of approximately 80 calligraphic works and related objects from various temples and institutions including Woljeongsa, Jagwangsa and Tongdosa Temples, Hanmaum Seonwon, Tanheo Museum and Tanheo Buddhist Cultural Foundation. This exhibition is organized to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of Master Tanheo.

 

The exhibition highlights the calligraphy of Masters Hanam and Tanheo, two eminent monks of Woljeongsa Temple in Mt. Odaesan. The calligraphy of Buddhist monks is categorized as “Seon Writings” in the history of Korean calligraphy. Seon writings, also understood as monks’ writings, are an embodiment of yige (carefree style) and their distinct personalities. The works of the two monks based on Seon writings and tradition deal with various subjects including Buddhist sutras, enlightenment, famous phrases from Chinese classics and attitudes toward life.

 

Hanam (1876−1951) is the central figure in the revival of modern Korean Buddhism. For his profound learning and upright personality, he was greatly respected by Buddhist monks and intellectuals including his best pupil, Master Tanheo. Putting emphasis on meditation, Hanam believed that only the disciplined mind and study of Buddhist scriptures could lead to righteous conduct and enlightenment. This thought can be traced back to Jinul (1158−1210), of whom Hanam is regarded as the successor of the mainstream Buddhist teaching of the Goryeo period (918−1392). In 1941, he was appointed as the first supreme patriarch of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism.

 

The calligraphic style of Hanam shows clean and static brushworks, reflecting the high intellect and integrity of the master. His letters are particularly important in understanding the writings of Hangul in the modern period.

 

Tanheo (1913−1983) was one of the most outstanding Seon masters in the 20th century and a distinctive Buddhist scholar−monk who was also knowledgeable in Confucianism and Daoism. During his search for the origin of universal truth, he met Hanam and became his best disciple.

 

Throughout his life, Tanheo made a great effort in translating Korean Buddhist sutras. His comprehensive translation of Avatamsaka Sutra is widely regarded as his most significant achievement. He also initiated the reconstruction of Woljeongsa Temple and restoration of Hanam’s scholarly works.

 

His calligraphy works were mostly made for his followers as an expression of his kind and warm heart. In contrast to Hanam’s style, his writings show fast brushworks and are full of energy. Moreover, his writings preserved in steles display his learned mind.