Critical Foundations
How can we acknowledge histories of violence, racism, and colonialism when teaching about Asian art?
Introduction
When walking through the museum’s Asian art galleries, you’ll notice elaborate sculptures, beautiful jade carvings, and towering gates. Upon closer observation, you’ll see that these are mostly Chinese and Japanese artworks surrounding you. In a dark, dimly lit room beyond these objects, you’ll encounter Mia’s Korean art collection.
History of Korea and collecting Korean art
Korea is a nation positioned between China and Japan. Its location was—and still is—viewed as strategic for outside armies, kingdoms, and nations. During the Japanese colonization of Korea (1910–45), the Korean people, land, and economy were exploited for the benefit of Japan. For centuries prior to Japanese colonization, Korea was repeatedly invaded by Chinese and Mongol forces and was made politically subordinate to Chinese kingdoms. As a result of constant foreign attacks—from countries including the United States— and upheaval, much of Korean art was destroyed and stolen. In addition, Korean art has been seen as less valuable than the art of more dominant countries like Japan and China. Thus, historically there has been less interest in collecting and studying Korean art, a legacy that is also notable in Mia’s own collection and gallery space.
Oftentimes when museums discuss the impact and legacies of colonialism and conflict we refer to Western colonization. But when teaching about Asia, it is particularly important to acknowledge Japanese imperialism and colonial rule. Koreans are just one of many Asian peoples who have experienced colonization, war, trauma, and hardship. It is important to acknowledge, learn, and teach about troubled histories throughout Asia and their connections to current global issues.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
When incorporating Asian art into your teaching, make sure to include examples from Mia’s Korean art collection. Look at objects on Mia’s Collections website, or take your students into the Korean gallery (G206) when you visit in person.
There is a large Korean adoptee community in the Midwest. Utilizing Mia’s Korean collection may provide opportunities to connect Korean American students—including adoptees—to the cultural heritage of their birthplace.
Writing and discussion prompts include:
- Why do you think war and domination are sometimes glorified in art? Who gets to tell these stories? Whose voices are missing? How does this kind of art impact the way we think about history, people, and nations?
- How do artworks in the Korean gallery reflect historical and current issues in Korea? How do they reflect Korea’s fraught history with Japan and China?