Introduction to Taoist Art
Wu-Wei, Sumi-e, Chinese Pottery and The Silk Road
What are the "origins" of Taoist art? Explore art of China's earliest dynasties, as well as the role of Taoist artists in feudal society.
Introduction to Taoism and Early Chinese Art
The most important concept in Taoist art is "Wu-Wei," meaning "Non-Doing." As with life, Taoists believed art should "go with the flow." Rather than spending hours meticulously painting a landscape, tending to every minute detail, they chose to apply paint very quickly to the surface. This technique became known as "Sumi-e," a traditional painting method that captured only an impression of the subject matter. Other major categories of Taoist art include:
- Earthenware, stoneware and porcelain (pottery)
- Bronze vessels (usually in the shape of animals)
- Carved stones (such as Jade or Nephrite)
- Woodblock prints
- Painted silk (used for funeral banners, clothes)
Earthenware, stoneware and porcelain remain the cornerstone of all Chinese art. Even before the 4th millennium B.C.E., Chinese artists produced vast amounts of earthenware without the use of a potter’s wheel. Designs on early earthenware consisted of checkered patterns, zigzags and other abstract motifs. The pottery itself was used for storage, or for holding various foods and supplies. Other times, pottery was used at temples during ceremonies and rituals. Porcelain (ceramics) was later introduced in 1300 C.E.
Role of Taoist Artist in Chinese Society
Early Taoist artists sought seclusion from the world. They often left their families and concentrated solely on Tao (the way to reach immortality through various teachings) and their artwork. Taoist artists did not seek fame or fortune, but rather worked for temples belonging to the empire. Many of these artists remain anonymous, because they were not allowed to receive private commission from buyers. Some are known however, due to ink seal impressions that scribes placed on scroll paintings or drawings. Not until the Tang Dynasty, did artists begin to work independently rather then in communal workshops.
200 - 589 C.E., The "Silk Road" and The Flourishing of Chinese Painting
During the years 200 - 589 C.E., Buddhism began to penetrate Chinese society. Buddhist teachings were gaining popularly throughout the empire, but Taoism still held strong and continued to flourish. Buddhism spread rapidly due to the "Silk Road," where traders from areas of India, Rome and the Mediterranean exchanged goods.
This period also witnessed the flourishing of Chinese painting. Chinese painting was usually done on silk or paper, and was executed with a round tapered brush and mineral based ink. The "handscroll," which was a horizontal scroll, became the most common format for this medium. Taoist priests often used these scrolls during special ceremonies, and they were also hung in temples or in homes.
Useful Links
Met Museum (offers a timeline and virtual gallery of Chinese art)
Minneapolis Institute of Art (also offers a virtual gallery dealing with asian and Taoist art)
