Sorae Port merchants find expression through art in 'Stay Long in Sorae' program

Merchants at the Incheon Namdong-gu Sorae Port fish market have found a unique outlet for self-expression through a cultural program that encouraged them to capture their memories and identities in words and drawings. The "Sorae ni Orae" (Stay Long in Sorae) program, organized by the Namdong Cultural Foundation, concluded its final session, allowing participants to reflect on their experiences.

“

It was just fun. The fact that I could do something itself was enough.

For many, the program offered a much-needed respite from the daily grind of running their businesses. Go Seong-hee, who has sold fermented seafood at the market for 20 years, shared how the classes, initially attended reluctantly, became a source of joy and focus. Despite initial struggles with drawing, she found herself dedicating hours to her assignments, stating, "Even while feeling stressed, I found myself sitting at my desk without realizing it." This dedicated time allowed her to concentrate on herself, away from the demands of her shop.

“

Even while feeling stressed, I found myself sitting at my desk without realizing it.

Another merchant, Lee Min-ja, who has run a raw fish restaurant for 20 years, also found solace in the creative process. "It was good to be able to immerse myself in drawing and writing without thinking about anything else," she said. Her family particularly appreciated seeing her engaged in an activity that allowed her to focus on herself as an individual, rather than solely as a business owner or caregiver.

“

It was good to be able to immerse myself in drawing and writing without thinking about anything else.

The program culminated in the creation of a collaborative recipe book, compiling the merchants' handwritten recipes, stories, and illustrations. Those who completed the program received "Artist Merchant" certifications and "Sorae Port Art Store" plaques. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap between the historical significance of Sorae Port and the merchants who continue its legacy, empowering them to become storytellers of their own lives and the community's heritage. The foundation noted that targeting merchants as cultural education participants was a novel approach, initially met with resistance but eventually embraced as a "healing program."

“

For almost 40 years, I haven't held colored pencils. Just coloring for myself felt like my chest was opening up.