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"The Way" of Art

Inspired by China's history, art, and the philosophies of Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, these resources have been compiled to help guide the new or returning art student on "the Way" to achievement and success in the art room.

Additional inspiration for this approach to learning about art  comes from the upcoming VMFA exhibit, Forbidden City: Imperial Treasures from the Palace Museum, Beijing.

VMFA - China's Forbidden City

As art students, we can learn a great deal from studying Chinese art, history, and philosophy:

Learning to think and work like an artist is a good practice for all, as many artistic behaviors can (and should) be used in other disciplines. Consider how respect, balance, contemplation, patience, focus, observation, open-mindedness, perseverance, problem solving, tolerance, and other, similar abilities would benefit anyone, in any area of life, study, and work.... 

None of these behaviors is new, however, and the ancient Chinese philosophy of Tao (or Dao)
, is a good example of this. Tao translates to "the Way"  and is the ultimate creative principle of the universe. This concept can serve to inspire and cultivate the behaviors and attitudes that will be needed in art class and beyond. 

Above image: The Three Sages: Confucius, Buddha, and Lao Tsu, from a series in the Kano style (ca. 1750–1825)
Daoism and Daoist Art (Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Taoism and Confucianism, Ancient Philosophies

The Birth and Spread of Buddhism
"The Vinegar Tasters"

Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism

Buddhism and Buddhist Art (Metropolitan Museum of Art)
Go to: The Scholar's Rock
Go to: Chinese Painting
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