Beyond the Canvas: The Cultural and Institutional Evolution of Mixed-Media Painting in China (1985-2010)
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Abstract
Background and Aim: The emergence of mixed-media painting in China following the "85-New Wave" (1985–2010) marked a significant shift in contemporary artistic practices. This study examines how the adoption of mixed-media painting reflects broader cultural, political, and institutional transformations in China. It explores the movement’s evolution from an experimental art form to an established practice within the Chinese art system.
Materials and Methods: Using a qualitative approach, this research analyzes archival records, scholarly articles, and exhibition histories, complemented by in-depth interviews with six prominent artists. A formal analysis of key artworks is conducted to trace stylistic and conceptual developments, categorizing this evolution into three phases: early experimentation (1985–1987), conceptual rationalization (1987–1989), and institutional integration (1989–2010).
Results: The findings reveal that mixed-media painting initially served as a tool for artistic resistance, incorporating Western avant-garde techniques to challenge traditional Chinese aesthetics. By the late 1980s, it became a medium for socio-political commentary, utilizing new materials and conceptual strategies. Post-1989, mixed-media art gradually entered the mainstream, culminating in its formal recognition by the China Artists Association in 2012. The study highlights the dual role of mixed media as an agent of artistic innovation and a vehicle for negotiating state-sanctioned artistic boundaries.
Conclusion: This study contributes to the understanding of how mixed-media painting facilitated artistic pluralism in China while navigating the constraints of political and institutional forces. By documenting its historical trajectory and impact, the research underscores the significance of mixed media in shaping contemporary Chinese art. Future studies should explore cross-cultural comparisons, digital influences, and the evolving institutional frameworks that continue to shape mixed-media practices globally.
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