Subjects:
particularly in the art realm.Hirayama says, in reference to
Japan, that by increasing ones exposure to Western art, one calls
into question many long held artistic assumptions and
institutional practices (57). He noted that such caused upheaval
throughout the Meiji period, an era of cultural uncertainty (57).
Some artists, during the controversial years in the early part of
the twentieth century, would vie for more Western styles. While
some artists did try to make their works acceptable world wide by
choosing this option, the Japanese did effectively create unique
art forms anyway. Japanese aesthetics provide a key to
understanding artistic works that are quite different than those
Within the East Asian artistic tradition, China had been the
leader and Japan's art took much from the country; Yet, Japanese
artists developed their own style, which is clearly not Chinese
(Griffin PG). And of course, the world was not always
discriminatory against the East. Many centuries ago, before the
eruption of the very popular western art movements, there was a
different attitude. In order to get a glimpse of how different art wa
. . .
stick with traditional style. The influence of this time period perhaps set in
motion a uniqueness in Japan that would carry through to thepresent day. Many key traits
of the Asuka Period, in fact, were expressed in the design of
this particular gate (PG). Courtier's clothing were
divided into three specific groups (PG). s prior to
the present day, a look at the Asuka period may prove to be
somewhat enlightening. The pillars are slender at each end
but fuller in the middle; this is allegedly to provide a feel of
stability to the viewer (PG).
When viewing art in Japan today one is struck by the
modernity of style, particularly in the area of sculpture.
The Asuka period temples are still magnificent but in
looking at other nations, one is often struck by their old
churches and temples as well, where an obvious attention to
detail is the rule. Temples built during the Asuka period were
centers of art and learning in addition to bearing a religious
significance.
It is interesting to look at art periods as worldly events
as trends do significantly influence the art world in each
country.
One interesting focus is on a particular portion of the
Horyuji Temple. Much fuss has been made on what is called the
Romon Gate.
One such gate, which was fashioned after the well known Romon
Gate,is known as the Chumon Gate ("Chumon" PG). An emphasis was on
solemnity and sublimity; however, features were idealized (PG).
Essay's Topics
All research is for reference purposes only.