Unfettered Ink 妙笔丹青
The Writings of Chen Chong Swee 陈宗瑞文集
Published in 2017 by National Gallery Singapore
Reproduced Courtesy of the publisher
On the value of Art Education
According to historical records, art education began in the Zhou dynasty (500 BC) in China. At that time, the Six Arts formed the basis of education and included rituals, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy and mathematics (rituals and music would today constitute “art education”). Among the Six Arts, rituals and music were considered the most important components. Around the same time, the Greek philosopher Aristotle also stressed the importance of art education and included it in school curriculum. Zhang Yuanyuan of the Tang dynasty opined ”What dictates human life is art. Empowered to translate the human’s rational mind into love and emotions, art spreads the complete affection of a mere few individuals to many others.” Words spoken by these celebrated ancient and modern Chinese and Western personages ethics that is essential to all of humanity.
However, the development of art education in history has been greatly compromised. The economy of the feudal system and autocratic rule in ancient China made art the mere plaything of royalty, and a way for the literati class to pass their time. Chinese art headed down this narrow path of development, inaccessible to the general masses.
The history of Western education also tells us that art education was only establised in the 18th century. After the mid-19th century, art education became part of education reform. As for Chinese art education, it was revived only when the education system was modelled after that of the West. Although art forms part of the current education system, many do not realise its importance.
The above excerpts are paragraphs from Mr Chen Chong Swee’s writing.
For the full essay please refer to the publication.
This publication can be purchased from National Gallery Singapore or Kinokuniya Online.