Traditional Korean art is often used when decorating the home. Traditional techniques including calligraphy, pottery, fabric arts and painting are commonly used. Techniques using natural forms and bold colors are popular in Korean art, making it perfect for home decorating indoors as well as outdoors.

Historic Korean Art

Many people enjoy collecting and displaying historic Korean art, which dates back thousands of years. This art includes various types of pottery, including decorative pieces as well as common plain styles of pottery commonly used for storage and cooking. Bronze items are also prevalent in historic Korean art, including ritualistic items such as bells and mirrors. Wall mural paintings are generally thought to be the forerunners of the Korean landscape and portrait paintings that are common in modern Korean art.

Statues were also common, with many statues representing spiritual and mystical subjects. In fact, some of the most beautiful historical Korean art no doubt originated in temples. Traditional Korean art contains elements of both Confucianism and Buddhism, with iconography being very popular in art objects. Traditional Korean paintings include both idealized landscapes that were traditionally popular, as well as a more realistic style of painting. While most historical Korean art exists as family heirlooms or museum pieces, the overall style of historic Korean art continues to influence modern art styles.

Korean Paper and Fabric Art

Calligraphy, painting, printing, paper folding, and embroidery and decorative knotting are common in Korean art. Although very little paper art from early Korean times has survived, contemporary Korean artists are very active and produce beautiful works which are commonly used not only for home decoration but also for decorative clothing items. Painting brush stroke techniques are important in Korean art, since this is often the focus of Korean paintings. Calligraphy and other beautiful brush techniques remain popular in today's Korean artwork.

Korean Sculpture and Ceramics

While most historic Korean paper art has not survived over the years, there is a richer history in regards to ceramics and sculpture. Modern Korean sculpture and pottery often reflects traditional themes, which include Buddhist designs, knotwork designs, and mystical subjects. Artwork consisting of woven bamboo is also popular in Korea. Natural motifs and designs are common in all styles of Korean artwork, including sculptures and ceramic pottery pieces. Metal work including cast and hammered bronze and silver works are also common in Korean art, as well as carvings from natural materials such as jade and stone.

Korean Garden Art

Art is also prevalent outside the home, in addition to interior design and art. Korean gardens have long been associated with palaces and artwork designs for gardens often reflects the same types of designs and patterns found in shrines and temples. In fact, these kinds of designs are prevalent in all types of Korean art, including designs used for clothing, common everyday objects and furniture. Patterns often include motifs from nature, in addition to patterns made up of geometric shapes and designs. Animal designs and spiritual designs are also very common in Korean outdoor and garden art.