Aesthetic Analysis of XU Beihong’s Calligraphy Characteristics toward Creating Functional Artworks

Abstract

This research aims to analyse and study the Xu Beihong calligraphy identity, as well as to create functional art inspired by this identity. The research methodology is the combination of calligraphy and design using various methods, including surveys, literature, experimental, interdisciplinary, and inductive/deductive approaches. The study consists of three phases: preparation, study, and evaluation, with a focus on Xu Beihong's calligraphy style and its connection to functional art creation. Morover, this study utilises expert interviews, questionnaires, the Index of Project Objective Congruence (IOC), and an expert rating scale to evaluate contemporary functional art influenced by Xu Beihong's calligraphy. This study explores the use of Chinese calligraphy, a recognised intangible cultural heritage, to create a functional art system that integrates oriental aesthetics and modern design concepts for industry upgrading. Furthermore, cherry wood is a popular choice for creating functional artwork, especially Chinese-style stationery, due to its beauty, durability, stability, and processing performance. It's 37% more preferred than benchmark wood but has higher prices due to rarity and processing difficulty. Conclusion, the Chinese stationery set "Dignified and Respectful: Becoming Stronger Every Day" features five pieces inspired by Xu Beihong's calligraphy, integrating calligraphy art with functional art. The set embodies Confucian culture's spiritual core, representing virtue, respect, harmony, and self-improvement. The design bridges tradition and the present, showcasing the power of Confucian culture in a modern design language.