Chinese Cultural Traditions in Art
Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism ‘The three great teachings’
Central Beliefs
Confucianism
- Emphasizes morality and living by a moral code
- Emphasizes the importance of learning from teachers and sages
- Emphasizes the importance of knowing one's place within unequal social relationships
- Emphasizes filial piety and respect for elders and ancestors
Daoism
- Believes that the Tao is the force that flows through all life
- Emphasizes the importance of finding balance in life
- Emphasizes the importance of accepting oneself and not obsessing about life's contradictions
- Emphasizes the importance of finding balance in the world's opposing forces (light and dark, good and evil, hot and cold)
- Live a life of compassion, moderation, and humility
- Follow the art of wu wei 'non0-action' (let nature take its course)
Buddhism
- Everything in life is impermanent
- Suffering comes from greed and desire
- Follow the middle path and reject extremes to end suffering
- Original Buddhist goal was to end suffering, achieve enlightenment, and break the cycle of rebirth
- A life dedicated to meditation, teaching, and good deeds can help achieve enlightenment
Artistic Representations of Chinese Belief Systems
Confucianism
Guiding Questions
- What elements and central tenets of Confucianism are present within this image?
- Do you think that this painting has a strong or weak visual connection to the values and tenets of Confucianism?
Taoism
Guiding Questions
- What elements and central tenets of Confucianism are present within this image?
- Compare this piece of Daoist art to the Confucian art above. What similarities and differences do you notice?
- Do you think this painting has a strong or weak visual connection to the values and tenets of Daoism?
Buddhism
Guiding Questions
- What elements and central tenets of Buddhism are present within this image?
- Compare this piece of Chinese Buddhist art to the Confucian and Daoist art above. What similarities and differences do you notice?
Contemporary (Modern) Visualizations of Traditional Chinese Belief Systems
Confucianism remains a powerful social force in China and other areas of East Asia. The continuing influence of Confucianism in China can be seen in modern Chinese marketing.
McDonald’s and the fast-food lifestyle are an American export. McDonald’s first restaurant opened in China in 1990. To expand in China, McDonald’s must make its brand relevant to the Chinese consumer. This ad titled ‘Prosperity’ uses traditional Confucian references to connect to certain Chinese consumers.
Guiding questions
- What traditional Confucian beliefs had McDonald's incorporated into this advertisement?
- Why do you think McDonald's would use traditional Confucian values to try and sell their product?
- What new new social norm do you think McDonalds is presenting to viewers in China through this advertisement.
