During the first three months of quarantine, I was not okay. Not being able to do what I’ve been doing for 11yrs straight without any breaks made me feel uneasy, uncomfortable and sad. It also made me really think about why I was so unhappy when I’ve never had so much free time in my life…
I realized that this life as a photographer, while extremely tiring, was my routine and something I depended on. Since it all abruptly came to a halt, I had to really figure out what it was that truly gave me that sense of fulfillment.
This time of reflection took me back to my childhood. As a child, learning Korean Traditional Dance was my passion and where I was the happiest. Something that was a school project became an obsession then I continued learning for the next 15 years. I used to performed in many different Korean traditional shows all around New York. The excitement and the butterflies I felt before stepping on the stage were priceless. It’s the same feeling I get now heading into a wedding.
I’ve always wanted to go back to the school and take photos of my teachers. And now 15 years since I left the school, I got in touch with my teacher and finally got the chance to photograph them. Photographing my teachers reminded me of those days and it was the best reminder to never lose my passion.
Korean traditional dancing is such a beautiful art and from every movement to their outfits, it speaks elegance, grace, beauty and refinement.
Happy to share pictures of these two beautiful ladies that taught me the beauty of Korean traditional art that I will forever be proud of.
