A Deep Dive into East Asian Beauty and Philosophy

“With their enduring beauty, the glorious artistic triumphs of history serve as perpetual wellsprings of inspiration in our lives.”

—Chang Ko-chin

Acclaimed for his expertise in traditional Chinese aesthetics and culture, Taiwanese Professor Chang Ko-chin is guided by his deep appreciation for East Asian artistry, including its timeless ideals and rich heritage.

A distinguished scholar from the National Taiwan Normal University and Soochow University, Professor Chang has dedicated his life to the appreciation of various artistic domains, including ink painting, calligraphy, and literature, most notably classics such as the Classic of Poetry, the Book of Changes, and the Records of the Grand Historian.

In this edition of Magnifissance, we’re privileged to engage in an in-depth conversation with Professor Chang, who graciously shares his vast knowledge of East Asian philosophy and aesthetics with us.

Q: Ancient East Asian art and culture, with their millennia-old history, may be challenging to understand for a contemporary audience. What drew you to this field of study?

A: Steeped in history, traditional Chinese arts and culture hold a distinct and captivating beauty. To give you an example, Song porcelain, despite its minimalist appearance, captivates us with its form and colouring, hinting at the profound depths waiting to be explored inside it. This vast inner meaning found in East Asian aesthetics is both delightful and thought-provoking to me, much like the experience of savouring Tang poetry.

Of course, while countless poets emerged during the Tang Dynasty, only a handful, such as Li Bai, Du Fu, Wang Wei, and Bai Juyi, have been immortalized by history. Their poems endure because they’re full of meaning, so they continue to enchant and resonate deeply with people today.

Despite being thousands of years old, these traditional arts remain relevant to us. When we encounter the calligraphy of 4th-century artist Wang Xizhi or the paintings of other historical greats in a museum, the beauty of their works continues to communicate, sparking a natural curiosity and inviting further exploration.

Q: What benefits can people today gain from studying these traditional works?

A: With their enduring beauty, the glorious artistic triumphs of history serve as perpetual wellsprings of inspiration in our lives. Whether we’re discussing Eastern artists and scholars, Western luminaries such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, or the architectural marvels of ancient Greek and Roman artists, their legacies have shaped the artistic imagination and cultural ethos of each successive generation.

There is, in fact, a common misconception about the term “tradition,” which is often believed to refer to the antiquated relics of the past. However, tradition is part of a dynamic continuum. It’s a heritage that transcends time, remaining relevant in the present and extending into the future.

Anything that existed solely in the past but no longer persists today can’t be deemed a tradition, whether it’s an artifact, a mindset, or a skill. Tradition embodies ongoing vitality and organic continuity; it’s much like the flowing river of history. Over time, it naturally refines and preserves the essence of what is cherished and timeless.

Q: How can we continue to create works that withstand the test of time by drawing upon tradition as a cornerstone of inspiration?

A: While all artists strive for innovation, true creativity seldom arises out of nothing, especially in the artistic realm. Innovation is often built upon the solid foundation of tradition, which evolves and becomes refined over time. In turn, works of art come to reflect the individual character of their creators. Thus, the distinct personality of each artist is the essence of breakthroughs and innovations.

When considering the value of some successful artists, like 20th-century painter Zhang Daqian, one often discovers that it stems from their connection to tradition. Their ability to stay rooted in this rich heritage enables their creations to withstand the test of time.

Hence, aspiring artists must first establish a solid traditional foundation. This involves mastering techniques and cultivating tastes rooted in the classics of art history. Whether one is studying oil painting, ink painting, sculpture, or ceramics, a mastery of the fundamentals is essential.

Q: Given the complexities of today’s social milieu, cultivating a foundation rooted in tradition can be daunting. What guidance can you offer for navigating this path?

A: Classical literature offers us invaluable guidance. As stated in the Confucian classic Great Learning, “Only by understanding your ultimate goal can you be firm in your ambition. Only by being firm in your ambition can you remain tranquil. Only by remaining tranquil can you be at ease. Only by being at ease can you deliberate. Only by being deliberate can you attain your goals.”

Therefore, understanding your objective and maintaining inner tranquillity are paramount to any artistic pursuit. When your mind is serene, clarity emerges, enabling you to discern your path and focus on your tasks with precision. Through thoughtful contemplation, you can attain a state of enlightenment, leading to the highest form of beauty.

Achieving this goal isn’t a simple task in today’s society. Calming the mind was more straightforward for the ancients, who didn’t have to contend with distractions like mobile phones or the Internet. Our modern culture, however, tends to prioritize instant gratification, making it challenging to cultivate inner peace. Nonetheless, we can still nurture our inner virtues by immersing ourselves in classical literature and art. When beauty permeates our being, it seeps into our artistic endeavours, imbuing our works with a distinct aura.

True beauty harmonizes with Heaven and Earth, manifesting when the inner self is refined. This inner elegance is reflected in our outward expressions, such as speech, behaviour, or creative endeavours. This was particularly true for the ancient Chinese literati, who were renowned for their grace and charm. That aura naturally imbued their poetry and paintings with timeless allure.

Q: In contemporary urban living, a growing number of individuals are drawn to Zen and wabi-sabi designs. These styles evoke a sense of tranquillity and closeness to nature, which many find appealing. What is it about East Asian aesthetics that elicits such sentiments?

A: The genesis of this aesthetic can be traced back to the teachings of ancient Chinese philosophies like Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. From the simplicity of Confucianism, the emptiness of Buddhism, and the nothingness of Taoism, East Asian aesthetics have consistently sought harmony between Heaven, humanity, and the natural order.

Why strive for unity with Heaven? Because Heaven embodies the highest, vastest, and most enigmatic aspects of our existence. It symbolizes the ultimate pursuit, requiring constant effort to attain it. The path to this pursuit entails reconnecting with nature, understanding the essence of Heaven and Earth, and striving to emulate their inherent beauty.

This journey is eternal and infinite. Even the most advanced technology and skilled artists can’t fully capture the essence of a blooming flower. Nature’s beauty is boundless, and our pursuit of it is unending. And when we finally attain it, don’t we become one with it? This is the essence of the unity between Heaven and humanity.