Primitivism And Modernism

The mainstream of modern art development is characterized by its combination of primitivism with modernism. Primitivism exerts a deep influence on the present artists' ways of expression as well as their concepts. There are many western artists who use primitive symbols to represent the simple and elegant spiritual fountainhead not yet contaminated by modern civilization. For example, there is Paul Gauguin who pursuits primitivism and barbarism; there is Henri Matisse, a leader of the Fauves, who benefits from the African art; there is Pablo Picasso, a cubist who grasps the spirit of primitivism. Together they represent the trends of modern art. Furthermore, their primitivism symbolizes the modern man's regeneration.As one of the most important ancient civilizations in the world, China has a colorful and exuberant traditional culture, which can be reflected by the daily life of the Chinese people. Yet most of the Chinese artists prefer the western styles than their own traditions, willing to be a ball-picker in the golf course. Many are familiar with the rule that the more the national, the more the cosmopolitan. But a few adopt this kind of guideline. Mr. Lu belongs to the few who successfully brings traditional Chinese decoupage out of obscure to some famous international exhibitions.As one of the founders of the Central Art Institute, Mr. Lu absorbs essences from tradition for his creation in his early years. His kirigami "Hypocritical Folk" has a tinge of traditional Chinese painting; " Moment and Eternity" symbolizes the life; "Chi Chu" displays the dilemma of human situations; " the Hall for Calling back the Dead" has a flavor of primitive witchcraft. Anyhow, he forms a style deeply rooted in Chinese tradition. On the other hand, he is modern and wittily applies contemporary techniques for the expression of his primitive emotions. For example, he uses modern equipments, settings and behaviors for the grandeur and poignancy of "Chi Chu" and "the Hall for Calling back the Dead." He places traditional Chinese kirigami in modern context. In this sense, he is a man who embraces modernism as well as tradition.