Traditional Art Research Articles

THE ASTONISHING BEAUTY OF CHHAU MASK: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY ON THE TRADITIONAL FOLK ART OF CHARIDA VILLAGE OF PURULIA DISTRICT, WEST BENGAL

Bengal, a land of beauty and prosperity in its cultural ancestry. The tradition is enriched by diverse folk art of various tribes and ethnic groups creating the uniqueness. Music, dance have great importance for recreational, aesthetic and cultural aspect of the state. The cultural background, social value and structure, history, religion and mythological concept are also reflected by the traditional folk art. Different types of folk art are found in West Bengal. Among them, Patachitra and Madhubani are respectively the traditional style of painting, characterized by their mythological stories and intricate designs. The other folk arts with great traditional significance are the embroidery art locally called, Kantha and metal casting technique based Dokra. The Chhau Mask making art is one of them important traditional folk art, essential for the age old Chhau dance. The present paper is empirical and qualitative in nature, mainly focused on the traditional folk art of Chhau Mask, an integral part of Chhau dance, of Charida village, its making procedure and people associated with the mask making economy.

Revitalizing Golshan and Sharifieh caravanserais: a study in adaptive reuse and urban preservation

The inefficient urban textures often turn into hotspots of social anomalies, leading to depressed, insecure, and non-participatory spaces. The issue of preserving historic urban textures and their dynamic evolution is essential for sustainable urban development. This research delves into the potential for adaptive reuse of the Golshan and Sharifiye caravanserais in the Hamadan city in Iran. These historically valuable structures previously helped in the facilitation of trade and travel; now, they need regeneration. The research, therefore, aims to harness the tourism and functional capacity of the abandoned Sharifiye caravanserai by linking it with the more popular Golshan caravanserai. This link will prevent abandonment and the deterioration of the Sharifiye caravanserai through the creation of an in-between space since it revitalizes both sites. The study emphasizes preserving cultural heritage while at the same time accommodating modern amenities to meet present needs. Therefore, the proposed adaptive reuse method would focus on preserving historical integrity while enabling the building to have a contemporary use. The method then proposes the creation of a transitional zone that transits the historic fabric to modern interventions. The revitalization and reuse of these caravanserais should be able to attract traders, generate hospitable conditions for residents, and increase local income through the tourism generated and the commerce of handicrafts and traditional arts. Effective principles of adaptive reuse are needed to maintain stability in the structure and function of these buildings. The study concludes that a balanced and thoughtful adaptive reuse approach with in-between space can bring transformation in the abandoned space into a lively cultural hub that would contribute both towards economic and cultural development in Hamadan.

THE LOST WAX TECHNIQUE OF DOKRA ART: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY ON BIKNA VILLAGE OF DISTRICT BANKURA, WEST BENGAL

Among the famous artistic works of Bankura District of West Bengal, Dokra (also known as Dhokra) is an age old traditional non-ferrous metal art of Indian Subcontinent. The term ‘ ‘Dokra’’ generally describes a group of craftsmen, nomadic in nature who spread over the different states i.e. Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Dokra is characterized by its simple and primitive figurines on folk themes, variety of beautifully decorated deities and animal structures. The evidences of Dokra non-ferrous metal crafts trace back to the Harappan Civilization almost 4600 years ago. The dancing girl of Harappan Civilization is an ideal example of Dokra non-ferrous metal casting. This paper is mainly focused on the traditional lost-wax technique (Cire perdue in French) of Dokra metal art of Bikna village of District Bankura still practiced at present. Delighted to say, Dokra art from West Bengal has gained the Geological Indication (GI) Tag in the year of 2018. The present study is qualitative in nature and based on empirical research work on Bikna village involving interviews, oral history and observations. Both primary and secondary data sources were used to accomplish the work.

Membangun Budaya Kreatif Melalui Seni Batik di Yayasan Cinta Yatim & Dhuafa, Pisangan Barat, Kec.Cirendeu, Kota Tangerang Selatan

Abstract. Education plays an important role in shaping a bright and sustainable future, with creative and fun learning as the key to creating an inspiring learning environment. This article examines the event "SEBATIK - Batik Art for Creative Culture" held at the Yayasan Cinta Yatim dan Dhuafa, Cirendeu, South Tangerang on July 20, 2024. This event aims to introduce and preserve batik art, as well as to arouse interest and appreciation for traditional arts among the children of the foundation. With a creative and interactive approach, this workshop teaches basic batik techniques through training and direct practice, and provides appreciation to participants through prizes. The evaluation results show that this activity has succeeded in increasing the creativity and skills of children, as well as strengthening the relationship between the foundation and the community. This workshop also has the potential to open up new business opportunities for foster children, increasing their economic independence in the future. This article presents details of the event implementation, the results achieved, and its impact on participants and the foundation.

Pedagogical Dimensions of Traditional and Modern Art

Pedagogical and interart features of Nepali art are themes of discussions. Pedagogy is a very important aspect of Nepali paintings, so is the interart subject. Pedagogic practice of art has always remained the most important form of activity. But the traditional art has its own legacy and strength. The method of apprenticeship of art comes from both family and school. But to understand the strength of the pedagogy of paintings we should also look at the interart dimension of art studies. Nepal also provides ample examples of such concepts and practices through times. Art pedagogy has two clear sides. One is temporal and the other is spatial. The temporal meaning is that Nepali art learning or teaching happened with the call and needs of the times. The spatial meaning is that the teaching and learning of art in general has happened as part of the heritage. The paintings and, even more than that, the sculptural and architectonic forms abound with examples. Nepali artists' stories of going out for learning art and returning with training and degree and contributing to the pedagogy and other practice have their own histories.

Animal Portraiture in the Shah and Rana Era

In the art history of Nepal, the portrayal of animals was never the primary subject until the late medieval period. But animals were depicted as mount of gods and goddesses incommon practice. Independent animal portraitures are seen for the first time in the Shah period. In the National Art Museum of Bhaktapur, a collection of forty-eight distinct animal portraits has been available. There are two types of animal portraiture: mythical creatures and natural fauna. Mythical beings are śārdūla, simha, śarabha, and vyāla, whereas natural fauna are wild animals available in Nepal. Mythical creatures are mostly inspired by Persia, Central Asia as well as the Far East, whereas natural fauna is influenced by Pahari, Mughal, and Mewar artistic traditions. Animals are depicted engaging in fights, chases, and brawls, based on the animal kingdom. Among them, bull fight scenes commissioned by Rana Bahadur Shah, depicted by Nepalese artists. The background of the painting reveals a portrayal of mountains, trees, rocks, rivers, and other natural elements of Paubhāḥ painting. In the early nineteenth century, Nepalese artists used to make copies by Nepali artists using a camera lucida, drawing on paper with pencil, and filling with black ink or colors. Under Jang Bahadura Rana, Nepalese artists observed the photos, sketched them onto the canvas, and then applied colors.

Study on Decorative Art of Temple of Arrondissement in Zhangzhou Area

The purpose of this thesis is to make an in-depth study of the decorative arts in Zhangzhou. As an important part of the traditional culture in Zhangzhou, the decorative art carries rich humanistic connotation and unique artistic style. By discussing the history and development of Zhangzhou decorative arts, traditional decorative arts, the relationship between decorative arts and cultural traditions, as well as modern development and innovation, we can better understand the role of Zhangzhou decorative arts in local cultural inheritance and its role in promoting local economy and tourism.

Indoor thermal environment simulation of jade carving design process based on light sensing texture image processing

As a traditional art form, jade carving has gradually combined with modern technology in recent years, introducing new technologies in the design and production process. Indoor thermal environment has an important influence on the creation process of jade carving, especially the influence of temperature and humidity on the physical characteristics of jade carving materials and its processing. In this study, the influence of indoor thermal environment on jade carving design process was simulated by light sensing texture image processing technology, so as to optimize the design scheme and ensure the quality and artistic expression of jade carving works. The temperature, humidity and illumination data of indoor environment are obtained by light sensing technology, and the thermal environment required in jade carving design is simulated by texture image processing method. The thermal environment model was constructed to analyze the performance of jade carving materials under different conditions and evaluate the possible changes in the processing process. The simulation results show that the temperature and humidity of indoor thermal environment have significant effects on the toughness, hardness and detail performance of jade carving materials. At temperatures above 25° C and relatively low humidity, jade carving materials show better cutting results and surface finish. Texture image processing technology can effectively capture and analyze the subtle changes of materials, which provides a reliable basis for design decisions.

Indang dance: An innovation of baindang traditional art in Padang Pariaman

Indang Dance is one of the innovative dances in Padang Pariaman, originating from the traditional art of Baindang. Despite its cultural significance, little research has been conducted on this dance. This article aimed to determine (i) the form of Indang Dance in Padang Pariaman, and (ii) the audience’s responses to the performance of Indang Dance in Padang Pariaman. The study was conducted using a qualitative method, incorporating both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected through observations and interviews, while the secondary data were gathered from literature reviews on Minangkabau performing arts. The data were analyzed using aesthetic theory, symbol theory, and reception theory. The results of the research reveal two main findings: (i) the form of Indang Dance is unique compared to other traditional dances in Padang Pariaman, characterized by its distinctive movements, costumes, and music; and (ii) the Indang Dance has received a positive response from audiences in various settings, including ritual activities and traditional ceremonies. It serves not only as a means of socialization for the Padang Pariaman regional development program but also as a form of social entertainment. The dance's ability to engage and captivate audiences highlights its cultural relevance and importance in the region. Through this study, we gain a deeper understanding of the Indang Dance's role in the cultural landscape of Padang Pariaman. The findings underscore the need for further research to explore the nuances of this traditional art form and its impact on the community. By documenting and analyzing the form and reception of Indang Dance, this article contributes to the broader discourse on Minangkabau performing arts and their significance in contemporary cultural practices.

Semantic Web Insights Into the Classification of Folk Paper-Cut Cultural Genes

This study aims to classify folk paper-cut patterns by regional culture, leveraging Semantic Web and LSTM technologies to discern how these patterns reflect distinct cultural characteristics. By developing an LSTM model capable of recognizing and categorizing these patterns, our study not only demonstrates high accuracy in classifying regional cultural genes but also reveals the depth of cultural heritage embedded in paper-cut art. The findings underscore the potential of computational methods in understanding and preserving the rich tapestry of cultural expressions through paper cuts. This work sets a foundation for future explorations into the digital preservation of cultural heritage, highlighting the critical role of technology in safeguarding and interpreting traditional arts in the context of regional culture.

Automatic Tea Ceremony Teapot Robotic Arm Design Based on TRIZ Principle

With the accelerated pace of modern society, there is a contradiction between the tedious steps of traditional tea ceremony and the convenient lifestyle. In order to solve this problem, this study applies the TRIZ theory to optimize the design of the fully automatic tea ceremony teapot robot arm. Through the "nine-screen method", the traditional tea-making process was comprehensively analyzed, the key steps were identified, and the cultural significance and technical requirements of each step were discussed in depth. Using the "technical contradiction matrix" and "physical contradiction" analysis, the potential contradictions in the tea-making process were revealed, and the "physical field model" was applied to construct the problem model and explore the possible solutions. The problem model was constructed by applying the "Physical Field Model", and possible solutions were explored. The study proposes a fully automated tea art teapot robotic arm design program that integrates several key technology modules such as heating and temperature control, plane movement, lid operation, and pouring and dispensing of tea. The program ensures the quality of tea soup and the experience of traditional tea ceremonies through the well-designed robotic arm structure and improves the efficiency of tea brewing at the same time. The structural safety of the design scheme is verified by stress analysis of the connecting plate of the robotic arm and the connecting plate of the teapot base. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme are verified through kinematic analysis, prototype testing, and user experience evaluation. This study is of great practical significance for the modernization and transformation of the traditional tea ceremony and also provides a reference for the automation of other traditional crafts. With the continuous progress of technology, we expect more innovative products combining traditional culture and modern technology to appear in the future so that traditional art can be revitalized in modern society.

Optimization Design of Automatic Tea Ceremony Teacup Equipment Based on TRIZ Principle

With the development of science and technology and the accelerated pace of society, people are increasingly pursuing a convenient way of life. The art of making tea in traditional Chinese tea culture, although rich in deep cultural heritage, is difficult to adapt its cumbersome steps to the modern fast-paced life. In order to solve this contradiction, this paper applies TRIZ theory to optimize the design of fully automatic tea cup equipment, aiming to realize the automation of the tea brewing process, while retaining the cultural essence of traditional tea art. Through the automation design of the steps of blancher, tea brewing and aroma shaking, combined with modern mechanical design and intelligent control technology, this study proposes an innovative fully automatic tea ceremony teacup equipment program. The solution not only improves the efficiency of tea brewing, but also ensures the quality of tea soup and the experience of traditional tea ceremony through careful design. Ultimately, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme are verified through kinematic analysis, prototype testing and user experience evaluation. This study is of great practical significance for the modernization and transformation of the traditional tea ceremony, and also provides a reference for the automation of other traditional processes.

Cultural Tourism Potential and its Development Challenges in Harari Region, Ethiopia

The Harari Region offers a rich cultural experience, including well-known historical sites, vibrant festivals, traditional arts, and unique culinary offerings, attracting tourists worldwide. The objective of this study was to assess cultural tourism potential and development challenges in Harari Region. A descriptive research design employed both qualitative and quantitative research approaches to describe the existing phenomena. The study employed probability and non-probability sampling techniques to obtain a representative sample and targeted groups. The respondents to this study were culture and tourism office experts, tourist guides, Museum Staff guides, Souvenir Shop sellers, and local communities. Qualitative data is collected through semi-structured interviews and observation, while quantitative data is collected through questionnaires. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 20 using frequency, percentage, and charts, using both primary and secondary data sources. The study finding reveals that despite the region’s rich cultural heritage, there are development challenges like inadequate infrastructure, insufficient promotional efforts, lack of awareness, poor handling systems, limited documentation, financial constraints, and urban pressures. The findings suggest that stakeholders should utilize cultural tourism properly while avoiding development challenges to support the Harari region and Ethiopia’s development efforts.

Performing Intra-Cultural Identities at the Shared Space of the Ruhunu Katharagama Asala Perahera Procession

This research paper discusses the complexity of performing, emphasising one’s traditional arts and belongings to claim and represent one's cultural capital or to meet the stereotypical anticipations of ‘others’ in shared cultural spaces, particularly in the context of sociocultural parades. This research also briefly delves into how the dynamics of disempowerment and empowerment of subcultures affect representing identities in shared spaces. It employs archival observations to analyse the Ruhunu Katatharagama Dewala Asala Perehera procession in Sri Lanka. In particular, the study exemplifies the representation of the identities of the contributing sub-cultures ethnic communities and performance groups of Sri Lanka through their residual, modified and stereotypical cultural performances including the performances by Sinhala, Tamil and Indigenous communities representing Buddhist, Hindu, and other religious beliefs and ideologies.

Architectural Design Styles and Case Studies from Different Countries

Through the appreciation and comparison of the various architectural styles of the East and the West, this paper studies the architectural form and structure produced in the context of different cultural differences and analyzes them in detail in various aspects. The essay takes the evolution of ancient and modern architectural styles of various countries in the East and West as the background of the study and explores the differences in architectural styles between different geographical countries and the factors that lead to these differences. Through the appreciation and analysis of typical architectural styles of these countries to compare the similarities and differences between the derivation of architectural styles, to explore the details of the characteristics of the architectural structure, to better derive the development trend of architecture and how to effectively help the future progress of architecture, which requires the mutual learning of the art and culture of each country, a joint effort. The exploration of architectural design requires more in-depth understanding and research, more refined through the integration of modern technology and traditional craft art.

Yu Shuxi’s Biography and Transmission of Pingdiao Sanxianshu Chinese Folk Singing in the Context of Literacy

This study investigates the role of Yu Shuxi in the transmission and preservation of Pingdiao Sanxianshu, an intangible cultural heritage, within the context of literacy and education. By analyzing the cultural significance and pedagogical practices of Yu Shuxi’s artistry, the research explores the impact of traditional folk arts on literacy development and cultural identity formation. Utilizing qualitative methods, including interviews with key informants and field observations in Baofeng County, Henan Province, the study captures the intricate relationship between individual biographies and broader educational practices. Data analysis reveals how Yu Shuxi’s life story and teachings in Pingdiao Sanxianshu contribute to cultural preservation and literacy skills among learners, emphasizing the need for integration of traditional arts in modern education. The results indicate the potential of such arts to enhance critical thinking, linguistic abilities, and cultural literacy. Consequently, the research suggests collaborative measures across educational institutions, governmental policies, and community efforts to ensure the viability and relevance of traditional folk arts like Pingdiao Sanxianshu in contemporary society, maintaining their legacy for future generations.

The Art of Chinese Calligraphy: Educational Protection and Literacy Study of Cultural Heritage

Chinese traditional calligraphy is an important part of Chinese culture, with rich cultural value, historical value, artistic value and educational value. Traditional calligraphy art has shown new characteristics in the current era. This research objectives are: 1) to study the historical development and cultural value of Chinese calligraphy; 2) to analyze the current situation and issues of Chinese calligraphy; 3) to identify the way in which inheritance and literacy of Chinese calligraphy art can be protected. This research adopts qualitative methods, collecting field data through literature document, surveys, interviews, observations, and group discussions. Our results summarize the multiple eras through which the historical development of Chinese calligraphy took place. Our study focused on the content and artistic styles of Chinese calligraphy, categorizing its development into four periods; namely (i) Primitive Society to 2070 BC, which is characterized by pictographic writing and primitive symbols. (ii) 2070 BC to 221 BC, the period of formation of written characters and invention of the writing brush and ink, (iii) 221 BC to 589 AD, characterized by the standardization of Xiaozhuan and the invention of papermaking, and (iv) 589 AD to 1905 AD characterized by development and refinement of the five script styles influenced by the imperial examination system. Our results also depict the current situation and problems of Chinese calligraphy and the problems it faces. Finally, the results also show the multiple ways in which Chinese calligraphy could be preserved. As an excellent cultural heritage, traditional Chinese calligraphy art will shine with new light in modern society.

Brief Analysis of the Cutting Characteristics of Paper Cutting

As a traditional folk art form, paper cutting utilizes scissors and carving knives, employing techniques such as cutting, carving, and tearing on materials like paper to create hollowed-out and interconnected artistic effects. This article analyzes the characteristics and effects generated by cutting and carving in paper cutting. Additionally, it explores the differences between scissors and carving knives in terms of tools and techniques, expressive effects, and regional variations. Furthermore, the emotional expressions of different paper cutting artists endow their works with unique artistic charm. By studying the techniques of scissors and carving knives, we gain a better understanding of the diversity and richness of paper cutting art. Its overall simplicity, brightness, rustic elegance, and strong contrasts endow it with high artistic value.

Semiotics of Mirror-tile Artwork Decoration in Iranian-Islamic Architecture

Mirror-tile geometric Artwork is considered the last innovation of Iranian artists in the group of the fine arts. That utilizes, for the interior architecture and decoration of buildings. The use of pieces of glass-mirrors and Mirror-tile artwork has economic origins and recycling roots. In the beginning, the Glass-mirrors, which had been brought to Iran from Europe, break during transportation. Iranian artists and Muslim Craftsmen found an innovative way to take advantage of these broken pieces and used them as Mirror-tiles. Being wasteful is an act that is abhorred in Islam. In traditional Iranian-Islamic art, the mirror element, besides that has been one subject of aesthetics for decorating the architectural built-space, includes deep cultural concepts that have not been considering for various reasons. This research looks at semiotic signs from an analytical point of view and explaining the use of the Mirror-tile art in Iranian-Islamic architecture by quoting information from the analysis to understand the quality of architectural built-space decorated with the Mirror-tile art. Aim to introduce the real and genuine aspects of mirror art as an influential architectural element through the thoughts of its creators as a result, in this research, first, the concepts related to semiotic ideas are dealt with descriptively, and, with an analytical approach, a connection established between various theories. Mirror-tile art also contains tremendous amounts of meaning - messages that words can never describe. For these craftsmen, that's at the core of their creation. Among the mystics, the inner language is the language of Spirit and Truth, and the tools of that language are the symbol and indication. With the aim of the influence of the Persian mystical thoughts about the mirror, this study cum the available historical and contemporary sources and analyzing them deals with the hidden meanings in Mirror-tile artwork. Reveal its connection with mystical thoughts through Persian literature.

Rediscovering Bruegel: Art and History in Michael Frayn’s Headlong

British playwright and novelist Michael Frayn’s 1999 novel Headlong centers on an art historian’s discovery of the lost sixth painting from the collection Months or Seasons that Flemish painter, Pieter Bruegel is believed to have painted in 1565. Throughout the novel, driven by a quest to authenticate and possess the painting, the protagonist Martin Clay is engrossed in a thoughtful and thorough examination of Bruegel’s art renowned for busy tableaus of peasants, harvesters, hunters engaged in daily and rural activities. From religious conflicts, biblical conventions to allegorical landscapes, labors of the months within the framework of changing seasons, Bruegel’s artistic milieu has been interpreted and elicited in diverse and opposite ways. For that reason, Clay’s speculations about the political, intellectual and symbolic history behind the painting are not only the substance of the book, but the lengthy and diligent research he takes on also provides historical backdrop of the Netherlands in early sixteenth century, a time of atrocity and oppression as a result of Spanish rule. In view of that, this study aims to examine and understand how Martin’s journey turns into a headlong venture carrying thematic elements found in Bruegel’s works delving into the complexities of human behavior. Frayn not only brings the missing masterpiece to life with relevant descriptions projecting Bruegel’s idiosyncratic style and legacy, he also explicates its iconography-iconology in a political, and art historical context showing affinity with the narrative and artistic traditions of Dutch genre paintings.