Onggi Festival with Master Jeon Soo-geol

Class Description

Join Korean ceramic master 전수걸 (Jeon Soo-geol) for an immersive Onggi technique workshop exploring the traditional techniques and aesthetics of Korean earthenware pottery. Through live demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants will learn foundational Onggi forming methods, and wheel techniques guided by the artist’s decades of experience. The workshop offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with Korea’s living ceramic traditions while developing practical skills in a collaborative studio environment. Onggi (옹기) is a traditional Korean earthenware jar, historically used to ferment Korean staples like gochujang (chili paste), kimchi, doenjang (soybean paste), and ganjang (soy sauce). Onggi represents centuries-old Korean food preservation techniques, passed down through generations and a symbol of Korean heritage. *Traditional Onggi Demonstration* Saturday, July 25, 11AM - 2PM [FREE & Open to the Public] *One Day Hands-On Workshop* Sunday, July 26 at 10AM - 5PM (1 hr lunch break) Master Jeon will begin by presenting and demonstrating the Onggi building method. Students will then begin learning how to make coils in the traditional Onggi style, first building the floor, and methodically stacking the coils. With the help of Master Jeon and his assistant, students will explore the Terim-method to compress and even out the walls into a jar form using Surae & Dogae tools made by the artists for the workshop. About the Artist: 전수걸 (Jeon Soo-geol) is a Korean ceramic artist and Busan Craft Master recognized for his dedication to traditional Korean pottery and contemporary ceramic expression. Trained in ceramics from an early age, he has spent decades refining techniques in buncheong ware, white porcelain, and decorative clay work. Through his studio, 수걸도예, he is known for elegant wheel-thrown forms, restrained aesthetics, and a deep respect for Korea’s ceramic heritage.