Irworobongdo, 2021
11x14", Colored Pencil

Irworobongdo [il wɜːr oʊ boʊŋ doʊ] is a piece of art that used to be reserved only for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. It was painted on a folding screen and was always located behind the king's throne. The painting symbolized the king's authority, the prosperity of the ruling king and his country, and wishes for the wellness of the king and his descendants. It was illegal to copy or possess the painting no matter how rich or high-status you were. Displaying this type of art was considered an act of treason and the punishment was death for 3-generations of your family. I painted this as a way to share (formerly) royally-reserved well-wishes with everyone.