Unraveling the Symbolic Metaphors: The Fusion of Ceramics and Fibers in Cross - Cultu

Abstract

In the context of postmodern art, the fusion of ceramic and fiber materials, rooted in distinct cultural traditions, has emerged as a significant trend in cross-cultural artistic expression. This study, from a cultural studies perspective, conducts a comprehensive analysis of the symbolic metaphors embedded in artworks that combine these two materials. It explores how the physical properties, forms, colors, and textures of ceramics and fibers serve as signifiers, conveying cultural meanings such as stability, tradition, change, and adaptability. Through examining case studies of contemporary artists like Nicole McLaughlin, Ai Kijima, and Maria Elena González, the research reveals the diverse ways in which ceramic-fiber fusion expresses cultural identity, migration experiences, and the tension between tradition and innovation. Additionally, the study investigates the impact of this fusion on contemporary art culture, including its influence on artists' creative thinking, the expansion of artistic boundaries, and its role in promoting cross-cultural dialogue. The findings contribute to art theory by enhancing understanding of materials as carriers of cultural and symbolic messages, inspire artistic practices, and facilitate mutual understanding in cross-cultural art exchanges.