BEYOND THE TOMB: HAN DYNASTY AESTHETICS IN PUBLIC ART, WOODBLOCK NEW YEAR PAINTINGS, AND URBAN SPACES IN CONTEMPORARY CHINA

Purpose: This study aims to explore the continuity of Han Dynasty aesthetics in modern Chinese art and its influence on contemporary urban landscapes. Han Dynasty, being the foundation of China history, was founded by Emperor Gaozu, whom also stabiized and unified the land of China, similar to modern territory. By investigating the historical achievements and artistic legacy of the Han Dynasty, the study seeks to identify key aesthetic principles, motifs, and techniques that continue to shape modern Chinese art and urban design. Moreover, the research aims to understand the role of Confucianism and Daoism in shaping Han Dynasty aesthetics and their enduring impact on cultural practices and urban development in China. Method: This qualitative study conducted 17 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, including urban planners, artists, policymakers, and cultural practitioners in China. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on identifying patterns, themes, and relationships related to Han Dynasty aesthetics, contemporary public art characteristics, cultural continuity, urban development factors, and urban aesthetics. Findings: The findings of this study highlight the enduring influence of Han Dynasty aesthetics on contemporary Chinese art and urban landscapes. Key themes include the integration of traditional motifs and techniques into modern artistic expressions, the role of cultural continuity in shaping urban aesthetics, and the moderating influence of urban development factors on the preservation and integration of Han Dynasty aesthetics within contemporary urban environments. Implications/Originality: This research contributes to theoretical frameworks in art history, cultural studies, and urban studies by providing new insights into the continuity of Han Dynasty aesthetics and its implications for modern Chinese culture and society. Moreover, the findings have practical implications for policymakers, urban planners, artists, and cultural practitioners involved in the development and management of urban environments in China. Overall, this study shows the farreaching impacts of Han Dynasty, spanning across time to affect the current society in the form of urban asthetics, cultures, and even to the policymakers ; while adds to the understanding of the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation in Chinese art and culture and its significance for contemporary urban landscapes.