We began the new 2025 academic year with engaging lectures on Chinese culture, one of which on 10th September was held at the A. Mickevičius Library. Attendees listened to a lecture titled "Garments, Accessories, and Body in Chinese Culture," delivered by Marta Logvyn, an art historian and exhibition curator at the National Bohdan and Varvara Khanenko Art Museum in Kyiv.
At the beginning of the lecture, expressions of status in Chinese culture were discussed, comparing European and Chinese ideas about how attire reflects a person's relationship with space and time, as well as the earthly and divine realms.
In the second part, we explored the concept of the body in Chinese culture—discovering that nakedness can signify both vulnerability and strength, while body modifications and tattoos can be symbols of both civilization and barbarism. This lecture mainly focused on the imperial costume, symbolizing power and identity. M. Logvyn explained the symbolism in the design and presented the historical context of these garments. The discussion later transitioned to the attire of scholars and officials, illustrating how clothing conformed to societal norms rather than personal expression. Minor distinctions between male and female attire in official roles, as well as the importance of accessories conveying social status, were analyzed.
Traditional attire was compared to contemporary designs, showing how traditional Chinese motifs continue to influence modern fashion and cultural expression. It was concluded that costumes in Chinese culture are symbols that reflect deeper societal norms and values, providing insights into identity, gender roles, and status. Artistic representations in attire serve as a medium to question the connections between clothing, knowledge, and truth versus fantasy. Clothing reflects power dynamics in society, with clear gender representations that align more with regulations than personal identity. The historical practice of foot binding illustrates the intersection of beauty standards and societal expectations, influencing modern perspectives.
The questions and themes raised in the lecture are relevant to contemporary fashion, as they connect traditional practices with modern interpretations, showcasing continuity and transformation in cultural expressions. The audience learned about the rich cultural context behind traditional Chinese garments and their evolving significance in modern society. At the end of the lecture, participants had the opportunity to engage in an interesting discussion with the speaker. This content is suitable for those interested in cultural studies, fashion history, and Asian art. You can listen to the English version of the lecture here: https://youtu.be/5kMHT5jhNIM