"The Structural Formation of Chinese Characters and Its Role in Enriching Mural Artworks"

Document Type : Original Article

Author

applied arts - helwan university

Abstract

communication is the broad umbrella that encompasses various forms of culture and art, aiming to create an enjoyable visual experience without relying on language comprehension or reading words. Chinese symbols, as formative elements, carry connotations of meaning and symbolism, along with balance and proportion, giving them distinct visual appeal. These elements are formed from points, lines, space, movement, mass, and void, making each character a complete visual artwork worthy of study and analysis.



The aesthetic values of Chinese symbols are determined by the shape of the symbol, its internal structure, and construction. Chinese symbols are not merely sounds or pictographs; they represent a comprehensive visual system with multiple functions, including sound, symbol, meaning, and imagery. This inclusiveness offers vast creative potential, making Chinese symbols a rich area for design, adaptable to both artistic and environmental works with notable visual depth.



The evolution of Chinese symbols spans a long historical journey, making it the only symbol system still in use from the ancient civilizations. This phenomenon is worth studying, particularly since Chinese symbols combine writing and drawing. An ancient Chinese saying suggests that "writing and drawing share the same origin." The source of these symbols lies in their original pictorial form, gradually evolving into "expressive symbols" with a richer content.



The number, simplicity, complexity, form, and proportion of Chinese symbols were never fixed, as their vitality stems from their ability to adapt to technological and social changes. From early colored pottery and bone and turtle shell carvings to wood and bamboo tablet writing, Chinese symbols have consistently adapted to each technological revolution, showcasing a strong link between applications and theories.

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