The Objecthood Of Sculpture

Sculpture, as a type of art expression with strong physical efforts, is a result of combination and interaction between the artist and the materials used, in despite of methods such as:using natural materials as raw materials and process in a traditional way; or using processed materials, even unprocessed natural materials, directly as art works in modern and contemporary art. Therefore, the concept "objecthood" should not be limited to the materiality of the material used, but also should include the entire process of sculpture-creating.Regarding the local Chinese culture, the objecthood of sculpture is directly related to a "Human Body-Object-Heart" system—a cognitive theory of the physical experience. Within this system, the subjectivity of the artist and the objectivity of the original material are able to mutually interact with each other. In another word, the physical efforts of the sculptor and the original material are equally important; the process of sculpture-creating and the finished sculpture are equally crucial. Hence, the real concept of "sculpture" is consisted of all abovementioned factors. After all, to emphasize the concept objecthood has no intention to eliminate the creativity of the sculptor. On the contrary, by emphasizing the concept objecthood, the artist and the original materials become united during the process of sculpturing. As a result, sculptors are able to pursue their achievements, spiritually unboundedly and practically unrestrainedly.