The understanding of art materials can provide the base for learning 때istic
expression and for appreciating art works. This study aims to overcome the
limited ways of teaching traditional art in school, and to search the possibi1ity of
teaching traditional materials based on the in-depth understanding of the philosophy
and aesthetics of Korean art. In order to develop a concrete argument, this study
focuses on the silk as the significant traditional material that reflects the Oriental
world-views, philosophies and art theories. The characteristics of the silk are
explained in association with its expressive quality of showing transparent colour,
the elegant representation, and delicate line. The examples in which such
characteristics of the silk are evident are discussed. First, the transparency of
r Avalokitesvara with Willow BranchJ can on1y be possible because of the
characteristics of silk. Second the elegant expression can be founded in the r A
Dream Journey to the Peach BlossomJ. The silk is used as a luxurious material in
the traditional art history and the effect of the silk is also highly ranked. Thirdly,
in the rportrait of Lee, JaeJ the delicate lines are very important methods of the
expressing the spirit of the person. The education of traditional material should be
taught based on its true meaning and value so as to help students discover
cultural identity and esteem through their own personal experiences with traditional
art.