Collision and Challenge: Influences of Sociocultural Contexts in Early 20th Century China on Storm Society Artists Exploration and Practice of Western Modern Art

Abstract

This essay engages with the topic of Chinese modern artists introduction and adaptation of Western modern art. This essay conducts its analysis on a modern artist group named the Storm Society (JuelanShe) active in 1920s and 1930s China. Inspired by a social art historical approach, this essay places its focus on the sociocultural contexts specifically present during the active years of Storm Society artists. Three factors are identified to be influential challenges in these artists efforts of exploring and introducing Western modern art to China: Cultural conservatism, inhospitable social environment, and Japanese Invasion in World War II. On the level of academic study about Chinese modern art, this essay highlights the importance to take into account specific cultural and social contexts in analysis of its history.