Aug 2019: Ode to the Korean Moon Jar

In 2005 I spent a very long & inspiring day in the Asian wing at the Met. It was the very first time ever wearing the museum guided headphones, and I spent the day tripping through the journey of Buddhism via art.

There is a small room of beautiful Korean ceramics, and this is where the Moon Jar lives. Moon Jars were originally made during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). Many many potters have been inspired by them over the years and I am no exception.

"The milky color and round shape have meanings on many levels. Koreans consider the full moon – with its soft glow that lights the way at night – as a gentle spirit, while white evokes the Confucian virtues of purity and modesty."

Traditionally the pot is made by creating 2 halves that are joined together, resulting in a beautiful imperfect perfection. 

My 'Ode to the Moon Jar' is made from a singular form & represents both the moon, and the sun that lights it up.