New Realism as a Mirror of Modern Chinese Society: Between Modernization and Tradition

Abstract

The article explores contemporary trends in Chinese easel painting, which are crucial for understanding the development of professional art education in higher educational institutions of Ukraine. Chinese artistic practices stand out for their exceptional pictorial quality, innovative techniques, and cultural depth, serving as both a source of inspiration and a driver of innovation in the development of global contemporary art. The New Realism movement emerged in the 1980s against the backdrop of profound social and economic changes in China following the Cultural Revolution. This movement was pioneered by Wang Yidong, Liu Yi, Leng Jun, and Shi Shong, whose works embodied the thematic, artistic, and figurative characteristics of New Realism. Their contributions not only captured the spirit of the era but also redefined the role of realism in contemporary easel painting, crafting a multifaceted narrative that intertwines personal experience with broader social reflections. Wang Yidong’s paintings convey nostalgia for the past, while acknowledging the inevitability of progress, creating a dialogue between the tradition and modernity. Liu Yi examines the cultural tensions of metamodernism, juxtaposing individualism with traditional collectivist values. Leng Jun is known for his hyperrealistic portraits that depict ordinary people in their everyday environments, skillfully integrating installation techniques with oil painting. His meticulous attention to textures and light recalls the explorations of American photorealists. Meanwhile Shi Shong’s works embody a “symbiosis of man and nature”, emphasizing the elemental forces such as water and air, which are vital for human existence. His series of abstract and semi-abstract compositions also address environmental concerns, reflecting the artist’s contemplation of humanity’s impact on nature. New Realism is characterized by several defining features that distinguish it within the contemporary art landscape. Artists within the movement employ realistic imagery in collaged compositions, shifting away from traditional narrative realism. Their works raise questions of personal identity amidst the rapid social change, capturing the complexities of modern Chinese society in a visually compelling manner.