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<Reminiscing about Manbong>
Arirang to air special documentary series, "Reminiscing about Manbong"
Master Buddhist priest Manbong entered Nirvana on May 17 of last year.  His depictions of Buddha capture the religious grandeur, supernatural power, and artistic values of “a silent Buddhist writing.”  Consisting of four parts, his works help viewers understand who he was as a taenghwa artist, a master Buddhist priest, and a human being.  His painting techniques, which developed over a lifetime, gives his work special qualities.  Viewers can also see his true character through interviews with people who knew him well. This special documentary looks into both the profound and the mundane such as Buddhism, priesthood, and taengwha by using still images, that capture the movements of priest Manbong.

Part 1 introduces the artist Manbong. His drawings penetrate tradition and modernity, containing the emotions of life through fabulous colors and detailed character sketches.  He entered the priesthood at six, and was designated as Korea’s No. 48 Intangible Cultural Heritage in 1972.  Acknowledged as a master artist on Buddhism, he worked for renowned temples and ancient palaces in Korea and overseas. He also strived to promote  Korea’s traditional culture worldwide through several exhibitions.  

In Part 2, viewers can meet the Buddhist priest Manbong, who contributed paintings of Buddha over a lifetime.  He considered the entire process an ascetic practice. 

In Part 3, you can get a glimpse of his students, who experienced his unconditional devotion for a meditative life. 

Watch a formal ritual for the dead be performed for the late-priest in Part 4.  Through this, viewers will be able to learn more about Buddhist culture.