Chinese Art - How did philosophy influence the development?

Question

Missed my lecture for school and I am in a bind here. If anyone is willing to answer this question, that'd be great.

Times - Ancient China to 500 B.C.E.

I haven't had much luck finding an answer. My textbook is lame, internet is even worse. Only things I can find are about Confucianism and Daoism, but no clear answer.

Answer 1

Well.... I don't know much about Chinese art.

However, the two ideologies you mentioned had a great deal of influence upon the Chinese culture. For example, Taoism (Daoism) is the focus of the ultimate nature of the universe and on the interplay of the two basic dynamic elements of Yin and Yang that are at work in all aspects of life.

My understanding is that there is many different disciples (martial arts, medicine, calligraphy, gardening, and I'm sure art) have devoted themselves to the exploration of these elements in their unique mediums. Art would seem most influenced by the Yin/Yang aspects of empty space and elements that fill that space.

Try doing some research with that as a basis for your search.

Answer 2

Let's go with Daoism: The "ultimate work of art" reflects the truth of the nature of the Dao--an ineffable presence of the life force --chi, especially shen chi--permeating the work, be it painting, ceramic, etc. When the work is gazed upon the observer is actually drawn into *experiencing* the Dao. It doesn't get any better than that :))

Answer 3

Greatly