15 Writers Unveil Stories of 'Tea and Art'... 'Hello! Cha Art Collection'

Until December 15, Hannam-dong Chaum&Co
Complex Exhibition Connecting Tradition and Modernity with the Theme 'Tea and Art'

A new complex exhibition interpreting tea (茶) as a form of art is being held.

Luxury tea brand Xiaoguancha (小罐茶) Korea is presenting the exhibition ‘Hello! Tea Art Collection’ under the theme ‘The Sensory Aesthetic World Created by the Meeting of Tea and Art’ at the Tea Art Exclusive Hall of Chaum&Co in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, until December 15.

This exhibition was planned to view tea, a traditional culture and popular beverage originating in East Asia, from a new perspective by combining it with contemporary art. The exhibition title ‘Hello’ signifies the beginning of a greeting that connects tea and art, tradition and modernity, everyday life and art.

Fifteen artists specializing in ceramics, lacquerware, and glass crafts vividly showcase their own interpretations of the world of tea art. The lineup includes masters such as Lee Kang-hyo and Choi Seong-jae, as well as mid-career and emerging artists, offering a diverse range of works.

Lee Kang-hyo’s ‘Buncheong Landscape Series’ abstractly reinterprets traditional Korean Buncheong pottery in various forms. The round moon-shaped stool piece allows visitors to sit and experience the artwork while drinking tea.

'Mindscape Series' by artist Choi Seongjae.
Photo by Chaum&Co

Choi Seong-jae’s ‘Mindscape Series’ combines Buncheong pottery with Joseon Dynasty literati paintings to create a cheerful yet modern atmosphere. In addition, works by various artists such as Lee Eun-beom, Lee Tae-ho, Kim Jin-gyu, Lee Chang-hwa, and Jeon In-sik are gathered in one place, ranging from large objects themed on tea to small tea utensils.

Fitting the theme of art accompanied by tea, the exhibition venue offers premium East Asian teas carefully selected by the organizer, served directly by professional tea docents. Through this unique experience combining exhibition viewing and tea parties, visitors can experience tea not just as a beverage but as a new concept that merges culture and art.

Han Hyuk, CEO of Xiaoguancha Korea, said, “Tea has long been enjoyed in East Asia not simply as a drink but together with the surrounding culture. Through this exhibition, we hope it becomes an opportunity to drink, enjoy, appreciate as culture, and further develop tea into the realm of art.”