Namnong Memorial Hall (Mokpo City)

 cultural heritage / national heritage, art museum / art gallery

Namnong Memorial Hall is an art museum established in May, 1985 by Namnong (190l8-1987). Namnong wanted to preserve the works of the previous generations and to maintain and develop Korean traditional art. Namnong was a master of the southern school of Chinese painting and the third owner of Unrimsanbang, the home of artist Heo Yu durring his last years.

Heo Gun was the grandson of Sochi (1808-1893), who was the master of Chinese painting at the end of the Joseon dynasty, and also the fourth son of Misan (l862-1938), a famous painter. He spent his whole life in Mokpo leading an active painting life and training many talented artists.

Namnong donated his collections of natural rocks, ceramic wares, wooden items, and the works of three generations of Unrimsanbang, to the Mokpo Folk Cultural Hall in 1981. Through his donation, he promoted the development of local culture.

Namnong won many awards, like the Award of Korean Cultural and Art and the Cultural Medal. He had the honor of becoming an elder member of the Korean Academy of Arts in 1983.

ln Namnong Memorial Hall, the works of three generations of Unrimsanbang, and other famouse artists in Joseon Dynasty, are exhibited. In addition, the works of other modern artists are exhibited. It is possible to get an idea of the evolution of Korean art painting through these collections.

In addition, there are about two hundred pieces of ceramics from the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties on display here. Every year, many visitors come to this hall so now it has become a famous destination in the area.