Within the framework of the Korea Festival in the autumn of 2008, the Centre for Fine Arts will be showing the finest masterpieces of Buddhist art from the history of Korea. For more than 1,600 years Buddhism has played an important role in Korean society. When it arrived in Korea, Buddhism was strongly influenced by native religions; the teachings of Buddha also formed the country’s most important bond with neighbouring China and Japan. Countless works of art and everyday objects bear witness to the influence of Buddhism. Buddhist motifs and images have been widespread since the 5th century. Among the treasures on display will be a number of “national treasures” from the National Museum in Seoul, including the gilded bronze Maitreya figure from the early 7th century, and a selection of the grandest paintings of the Goryeo period.

• The exhibition will present several national treasures of Korean art.
• The items on display are coming directly from the National Museum in Seoul and other National Museums.
• Korean Buddhism was influenced by native shamanism.
• Korea’s most important dynasties and kingdoms were intimately associated with Buddhist art.
• Alongside the historical exhibition there will be an installation by Nam June Paik (1932-2006), a pioneer of video art.
• In partnership with Espace Louis Vuitton, a selection of contemporary Korean artists will be shown in Paris.

Curator: Jan Van Alphen
Scenographer: Lee Preedy

Now also every Saterday untill the 10th of January free documentary films. More info