Joomchi: Contemporary Expressions in Korean Paper with Jiyoung Chung
A five-day creative retreat exploring the Korean art of handmade paper and transformation
Mon, Jan 4, 2027 – Fri, Jan 8, 2027
About the Instructor
Jiyoung Chung is an internationally recognized Korean fiber artist known for her contemporary interpretations of Joomchi and traditional Korean paper processes. Her work has been exhibited widely in museums and galleries around the world, and she is celebrated for bridging ancient techniques with innovative contemporary expression.
Her workshops emphasize both technical mastery and personal exploration, encouraging students to discover the expressive potential of paper through touch, rhythm, and transformation.
Experience the expressive possibilities of Joomchi, the ancient Korean art of felting and fusing handmade paper entirely by hand. Under the guidance of internationally recognized artist Jiyoung Chung, you’ll discover how this centuries-old Korean process transforms delicate sheets of hanji into strong, textured, sculptural works of art.
Through rolling, rubbing, layering, and manipulation, handmade paper becomes soft, cloth-like, and full of character — capable of standing alone as sculptural form or merging beautifully with fiber, stitch, print, and mixed media techniques.
This immersive retreat invites both experimentation and reflection. You’ll explore the rhythm of process, the beauty of imperfection, and the tactile joy of creating work that feels simultaneously ancient and contemporary.
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Traditional and contemporary approaches to Joomchi
How to fuse and strengthen handmade hanji paper through agitation
Techniques for layering, shaping, and texturing paper
Sculptural and surface design applications
Incorporating inclusions, collage, and color
Wet and dry manipulation techniques
Combining Joomchi with stitch, fiber, and mixed media processes
Developing personal expression through paper transformation
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Day 1 – Introduction & Demonstration
Learn the history and cultural roots of Joomchi while becoming familiar with traditional materials, tools, and methods for preparing and layering hanji paper.
Days 2–4 – Exploration & Transformation
Participants will explore:
Rolling, rubbing, and fusing multiple sheets of hanji
Creating layered surfaces and sculptural textures
Adding inclusions, pigments, and collage materials
Wet and dry shaping techniques
Combining paper with stitch and mixed-media approaches
Developing personal visual language through experimentation
Day 5 – Reflection & Presentation
Finalize and display completed works while discussing ways Joomchi techniques can continue into future fiber, paper, or mixed-media practices.
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This workshop is ideal for:
Fiber artists and surface designers
Paper artists and book artists
Mixed-media creatives
Quilters and stitch artists
Anyone interested in Korean textile and paper traditions
Beginners through advanced artists seeking new tactile processes
No prior experience with Joomchi or papermaking is required.
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A detailed supply list will be provided prior to class.
Aya Fiber Studio provides a professional working environment designed specifically for immersive fiber and mixed-media workshops, including large worktables, wet-work areas, and supportive instruction in a small-group setting.
Students traveling from out of town can find lodging, airport, and local recommendations on our Studio Information page.
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