11.12.2024Double Lecture: Women Artists in Twentieth-Century China: A Prehistory of the Contemporary / Ink Culture Without Ink

Speakers

Prof. Dr. Julia F. Andrews (Ohio State University): Women Artists

Prof. Dr. Sarah E. Fraser (Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg): Ink Culture

Date and Time

11. Dezember 2024, 18:15 - 19:45

Venue

Rämistrasse 59, CH-8001 Zürich, Room RAA-G-15

Abstract

Women Artists:

This lecture will reflect on two intersecting themes: the rise of women as artists and as subjects for art, in the context of the evolving status of women in twentieth-century China. Against the backdrop of the nascent modern education for women and the emergence of feminism between 1910 and 1940, the presentation interrogates, in light of contemporary art world patterns and current definitions of feminism, the slowing and even regression in recognition of women as artists in the second half of the twentieth century.

Ink Culture:

In the New Ink Movement, there is a shift in the performativity of ink art particularly since 2000, as global networks and exposure at international biennales make intermediality and performativity powerful methods to pursue new art directions. These artists explore new directions with ink in experimental styles and formats. When we think of ink art, the role of ink seems central. That is, it seems obvious that when we talk of “Ink Art,” “ink” would be a necessary feature or ingredient. Yet, it is possible to have ink art without ink. Artists who engage with the long tradition of ink culture and also explore new references in the medium include Xu Bing, Song Dong, Qiu Zhijie, Yang Jiechang, Liu Jianhua, Chen Qi, among others. This lecture will explore some of China's most experimental and thoughtful artists who are pushing the boundaries of tradition while maintaining reference to the long history of ink and its expressive importance.

Organization

East Asian Art History