The Diversity of Xuan Paper: Artistic Innovation from the Ancient to the Present
Xuan paper has always played a pivotal role in traditional Chinese art. As a unique Chinese handmade paper, it has a long history, a wide range of varieties, and unique artistic expressive power. This article will explore the diversity of xuan paper and its artistic innovation from the ancient to the present. First, the diversity of xuan paper. Xuan paper is mainly divided into two categories: sandalwood paper and bamboo pulp paper, due to differences in raw materials, production processes, and uses. Sandalwood paper is known for its smooth texture, lubricating touch, and long-lasting ink color, often used for high-level calligraphy and painting creations. Bamboo pulp paper, on the other hand, is sturdy and durable, suitable for scrolls and framing techniques. The production process of xuan paper includes material selection, soaking, washing, drying, and other steps, each requiring precise control to ensure the quality of the paper. Additionally, there are different types of xuan paper such as raw xuan paper, processed xuan paper, and double-sided xuan paper based on their uses. Secondly, artistic innovation from the ancient to the present. In ancient times, artists used the unique properties of xuan paper to create various exquisite artworks. For example, ink washes in landscape paintings and花鸟双勾 (bird-and-flower double outlines) in floral and bird paintings fully demonstrate the ink absorption and color gradation of xuan paper. Calligraphers also excel at using the smoothness of xuan paper to show the charm of calligraphy art. As for modern times, with changes in the times, while inheriting traditional skills, artists are constantly exploring and trying new creative ways. For instance, modern painting and calligraphy often adopt a combination of watercolors and ink or use special coatings and textures to achieve unique artistic effects. Some artists also try to combine xuan paper with other materials to create more modern artworks. Thirdly, cross-cultural exchange and artistic fusion. With the advancement of globalization, cross-cultural exchanges and artistic fusion of xuan paper are becoming more frequent. Many foreign artists have begun to pay attention to and try using xuan paper for creation, combining Western painting techniques with