In Korea, traditional flower arranging--Cocoji--is reflective of the
Korean people's nature and artistic aesthetic. It's an important element
of the country's unique culture. Flower arranging was once a common
hobby of Korean women; however, during the 50 years of invasion,
occupation and war that occurred in that country in the first half of
the 20th century, Cocoji was buried and almost forgotten. Today,
regrettably, it is often practiced only by professional groups. Through
the 32 intricate yet sometimes seemingly simple floral designs that are
gracefully presented on these pages of this quietly beautiful book, you
will learn the art of traditional Korean flower arranging, which has
been kept alive by authors Deokwon Lee and Heungkyoung Oh--and their
master mentor, the late Im Wha Kong. You also will discover the roots
and history of this more-than-2,000-year-old art form, which commonly
incorporates the use of three branches to represent the Chun-Ji-In
philosophy that the heavens, the Earth and the people are all governed
by a great singular power. Cocoji is uniquely different from Japanese
Ikebana and other Asian flower-arranging disciplines, and practicing its
tenets will broaden your floral design perspectives and influence the
evolution of your own distinctive style. This is more than just a
pretty-picture book; it is a surprisingly affordable study guide to the
art of Cocoji.
