Traditionally, practicing the Christian faith in Asian countries is taboo, and sometimes even dangerous, however this has changed in recent years, and though it may still not be safe for Christians, especially in China, and parts of Southeast Asia, , the influence of Asian Christians, have allowed other believing artists on the continent, to unabashedly practice their faith.
One believing artist who has pioneered in this field is Roger Cui. He grew up in China and recently ran the Cornerstone Art Association. However, he did not start out as a follower of Jesus, but rather, he had a winding journey through Buddhism, before finding Christ, and art.
In Buddhist tradition, one relies on the Sanga that they are in, as well as the teachings of the lama, but out of curiosity, not to attack, who does the Lamai learn from? Maybe one day I’ll find out. Chinese art stems from Buddhist traditions and is generally reflected in that way, with symbols like the dragon and the moon. The dragon usually represents prosperity, luck and the rains, which bring the harvest while the moon represents wishes, gentleness, and brightness. If the dragon were a real character, it would be a part of the Lord’s creation, as we all are. Again this is not meant to stir up anyone’s negative feelings. This is a discussion and I’d like to hear your thoughts as well, if they are different from mine. It’s just that for me, it is comforting to have and to know I was made with a purpose, as we all were, and that our Creator cares for us, and wants the best for us, he has good plans for us and will walk with us through any and all seasons of life.
. Back to the arts, though. According to the Cornell Chronicle, Rodger, also known as Haotian, Cui is now a doctor of art in residence at Fuller university. At Cambridge, UK, he received the “ 20th Century Award for Achievement, in recognition of outstanding achievements in the field of Religious Art Theory and Christian Art Creation of IBC”. (Nutt,2020).
Like Mr. Cui, another artist, He Qi is another artist who I’ll briefly discuss, His art resembles some of the wooden carvings seen in African art. I view this as one commonality that weaves both cultures together (Overseas Ministry Study Center, 2021).
If I can bring some lightheartedness into this topic as well, it would be to compare these artists’ themes to the original film, Mulan. I enjoy this film because like the Christian faith, it champions inclusivity; allowing women to play important roles, it encourages teamwork, and in the making of the first film, it casts diverse actors, such as the African American actor Eddie Murphy as well as the women who played both leading and supporting roles, like Mulan's mom, and the matchmaker.
All this is to say that anyone can play a part, and every part is important. If you’re a female artist you can play a role, if you’re a doctor from Canamai, you’re needed, if you’re a bus boy commuting to and from work after your classes, you are important and needed. Everyone plays a role. “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same spirit distributes them all” 1 Corinthians 12:4 NIV.
References
Cornell University, “Two Alumni Named Schwarzman AScholars”, Cornell University, December 7, 2020. Retrieved from https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2020/12/two-alumni-named-schwarzman-scholars on 23 April 2021
He Qi. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.omsc.org/artist-he-qi on 23 April 2021.
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