Cho Sok [Jo Sok]

Cho Sok, also known as Jo Sok, was a Korean painter active during the late Joseon Dynasty, with his life spanning from 1595 to 1668. He was a prominent figure in the Korean literati painting movement, which emphasized the expression of the artist's inner thoughts and emotions through brushwork and ink. Cho Sok was renowned for his mastery in depicting landscapes and bamboo, often reflecting the Confucian ideals of simplicity and integrity. His works contributed significantly to the development of Korean ink painting, influencing subsequent generations of artists. Throughout his life, Cho Sok held various government positions, which allowed him to interact with other scholars and artists, further enriching his artistic practice. His legacy is preserved in numerous collections, where his paintings continue to be studied for their technical skill and philosophical depth.