The Veil of Colors

During the Joseon Dynasty, Shin Lee-san, a gifted young painter with a secret. She is a woman who disguises herself as a man to study and practice art, as women were not allowed to join the prestigious royal art academy. Her unconventional talent and unique perspective on the world make her stand out, but her hidden identity and unorthodox approach to painting also attract intrigue and conflict.

Lee-san is mentored by Gong Ji-cheol, a renowned painter who recognizes her extraordinary abilities. Together, they navigate the competitive and hierarchical world of court painters. Their relationship deepens as Gong Ji-cheol becomes a mentor, protector, and even a figure of romantic tension.

Amid her rise in the art world, Lee-san's paintings begin to attract attention for their boldness and emotional depth. Unlike the traditional styles of her peers, her works capture human emotions, everyday life, and moments of beauty and sorrow in ways that defy convention. However, her unorthodox style, combined with her growing fame, draws the ire of those who see her as a threat.

The drama also explores Lee-san's relationships with other characters, including her mysterious muse, Kim Jennie, a beautiful, talented and intelligent daughter of high ranking official in palace, who forms a deep emotional bond with Lee-san. Their relationship is layered with themes of longing, unspoken love, and societal constraints, adding emotional depth.

As Lee-san's past comes to light, it is revealed that her father was unjustly executed, and her art becomes a means of uncovering the truth behind the corruption and injustice surrounding his death. This investigation ties her artistic journey with a quest for justice, exposing political schemes and challenging societal norms.