Resources and Preservation of Ancient Crafts

How many countries boast of preserved handicrafts remaining an essential part of national culture? India and China are at the top of the list, where the historical provincial distribution of handicrafts has preserved generations of continuity and the passing on of experience to new eras. It is precisely through this redistribution that high-end craft skills have been kept alive. We focus on China for this article.

With its great cultural resources and the preservation of ancient crafts, China may be on the threshold of a new era. If today the trendsetters of haute couture and its founders are France, which established the Haute Couture Syndicate and made fashion a subject of high couture art, China with its capabilities may become the founder of the establishment of of High Contemporary Art with the involvement of leading Chinese and European brands in the project, creating a new vision of couture art at the museum level.

The project's goal is not just to build a bridge between the two great cultures of China and Europe through cooperation in the arts, but to build an institution capable of bringing a different aesthetics into the world and shaping the taste of generations. Shaping taste through the prism of Asian and European culture.

High Contemporary Art in China. Basic situation

While China is a major player in the global art market, particularly in terms of art sales, it's not necessarily a leader in "high art" in the same way the Western world has traditionally defined it. China's art scene is experiencing rapid growth and evolving influence, but its identity within the international art world is still being shaped. 

China's Growing Presence in the Art Market:

·        Rising Sales:

The Chinese art market has grown dramatically in recent decades, becoming the world's second-largest market after the US, according to the World Economic Forum.

·        Collector Influence:

Chinese collectors are increasingly influential in driving up the value and sales of art, especially art of Chinese origin. 

·        Art Merchandise:

Art merchandise, like art on mugs, is a legitimate part of the contemporary art world in China, with museums and galleries often collaborating with artists on such products. 

Defining "High Art" in a Chinese Context:

·        Traditional vs. Contemporary:

While China has a rich history of traditional art, its contemporary art scene is still developing its own identity and global recognition. 

·        State Influence:

The relationship between art and the state, particularly under the Communist Party, is a significant factor shaping the contemporary art world in China. 

·        Soft Power:

China is actively using art and culture as a form of soft power, influencing its image on the international stage. 

Challenges and Future:

·        Limited Global Reach:

While Chinese films and other cultural products are gaining some international traction, they still face challenges in achieving broad box office success and distribution outside of China. 

·        Evolving Identity:

The Chinese art world is navigating its own unique path, influenced by both its cultural traditions and the forces of globalization. 

In conclusion, while China's art market is booming and its influence is growing, it's not accurate to say it's a leader in "high art" in the traditional Western sense. China's art scene is evolving, with its own unique characteristics and challenges as it navigates its place in the global art world. 

China has made significant efforts to preserve and revitalize its ancient crafts, particularly through its "Intangible Cultural Heritage" scheme and other government initiatives. These efforts include establishing museums, supporting workshops, promoting traditional arts, and encouraging young people to participate in these crafts. 

China is interested in promoting its high-quality contemporary art to Europe. Chinese authorities and collectors recognize the potential for cultural exchange and the economic benefits of showcasing their artists on the international stage, particularly in Europe. This interest is driven by a desire to build international recognition, foster dialogue, and potentially profit from the global art market. 

Traditional Crafts Suitable for High Art. Preservation of Ancient Crafts

Embroidery Art

Chinese embroidery, with a history spanning over 4,000 years, is a rich and diverse art form, with four famous styles: Su embroidery (Suzhou), Xiang embroidery (Hunan), Yue embroidery (Guangdong), and Shu embroidery (Sichuan). These four, designated as Intangible Cultural Heritage, are known for their unique techniques, regional characteristics, and cultural significance. 

Four Famous Styles of Chinese Embroidery:

1. 1. Su Embroidery (Su Xiu):

   

   Originating in Suzhou, it's known for its delicate stitches, intricate designs, and vibrant colors, often depicting landscapes, flowers, and animals. 

2. 2. Xiang Embroidery (Xiang Xiu):

   

   From Hunan province, it's characterized by its realistic depictions of animals, especially tigers, and its use of bold colors. 

   3. Yue Embroidery (Yue Xiu):

   

   From Guangdong province, Yue embroidery is known for its bright colors, elaborate designs, and use of theatrical costumes. 

   4. Shu Embroidery (Shu Xiu):

   

   From Sichuan province, it's recognized for its meticulous stitching and detailed designs, often featuring landscapes, flowers, and birds.

   
   

   Challenges and Preservation:

   Despite its rich history and artistic value, Chinese embroidery faces challenges in the modern era, including a decline in interest among younger generations and competition from mass-produced goods. Efforts are underway to preserve and revitalize this traditional art form, including promoting it through education, exhibitions, and supporting artisans.