Zou Xing ¹, Yu Yingzi ²

(1. Changsha Social Work College, Changsha 410000, Hunan, China;

2. Jingdezhen Ceramic University, Jingdezhen 333403, Jiangxi, China)

Extended abstract:

[Background and purposes] Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain represents a groundbreaking innovation in the history of ceramics, which was for the first time in terms of achieving high-temperature underglaze polychromatic decoration. Over the past century or more, its expressive language system has undergone continuous precipitation and evolution, giving rise to a distinct artistic paradigm. Nonetheless, in the context of the profound transformations in the contemporary art landscape, while Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain has preserved the continuity of its craftsmanship inheritance, the contradictions within its creative language have become increasingly evident. These contradictions range from limitations in material and technical aspects to the anachronism of aesthetic paradigms and from the conservative and ossified creative concepts to the impact of the rapidly evolving contemporary environment. All these factors have impeded the creative transformation of this traditional craft into a modern artistic language. This work was endeavored to explore the innovative approaches to the decorative art language of the underglaze multicolored porcelain. It is aimed to provide theoretical analyses and practical transformation strategies for the inheritance and development of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain. By doing so, it is hoped that the creative transformation and innovative development of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain in the cultural ecosystem of the new era can be effectively promoted. Additionally, this study was also attempted to offer valuable insights and experiences for the transformation and development of other traditional crafts.

[Methods] In this study, a multidisciplinary method was adopted, by integrating literature research and creative practice. Starting from three major dimensions of the expressive language of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain, namely, craftsmanship techniques, aesthetic implications and cultural context, the constraints that impede the breakthrough development of the contemporary expressive language of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain were analyzed. By studying cases of contemporary artists and studios and analyzing specific representative works in terms of content, form, color and comprehensive decoration, the feasible explorations for the diversified and innovative development of the decorative language of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain were systematically collated.

[Results] The innovation of the decorative art language of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain is primarily constrained by factors, such as craftsmanship techniques, aesthetic concepts and the zeitgeist of the era. The path of innovative transformation of its decorative art language mainly encompasses three aspects. Firstly, from a contemporary perspective, it is necessary to re-evaluate the traditional craftsmanship system and the context of techniques. Breakthroughs should be sought by comprehensively deconstructing the entire technological chain, which spans from raw material preparation to firing. Secondly, a platform should be established for observing and discussing contemporary art. Through cross-cultural exchanges and mutual learning, the creative concepts and methods of other art disciplines could be drawn, while the points of integration between the aesthetic expression of underglaze multicolored porcelain art and other art forms could be explored. Finally, an environment conducive to innovation and transformation should be fostered. Meanwhile, the course of underglaze multicolored porcelain should be incorporated into the teaching system of universities and colleges. The new generation will then become a powerful driving force in achieving the creative transformation of traditional elements within the contemporary context.

[Conclusions] As inheritors in the new era, we are obliged not only to uphold the intrinsic characteristics of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain, but also to drive the innovative development of its artistic language. Through systematic study and artistic practice, this study is used to offer novel perspectives and methodologies for the inheritance and evolution of the decorative language of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain.

It is firmly believed that, through the collaborative endeavors of numerous creators of Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain, the decorative language of this porcelain will surely radiate extraordinary splendor in the context of the new era. Consequently, it will make significant contributions to the inheritance and innovation of Chinese traditional culture.

Key words: Liling underglaze multicolored porcelain; decorative language; obstacles; innovation