From Form to Meaning: Contemporary Expression and Aesthetic Implication of Traditional Dance Elements

Abstract

"From form to meaning" is both the spiritual pulse of Chinese art and the aesthetic path for traditional dance elements toward contemporary expression. This paper takes "form" and "meaning" in traditional dance as core categories to explore their way of regeneration in contemporary dance creation. The "form" of traditional dance contains stylized bodily logic and the rhythmic beauty of national culture; meanwhile, "meaning" is the spiritual imagery and emotional charm revealed through bodily perception. With the introduction of modern dance trends, "form" in dance is no longer a static symbol but becomes a medium for the generation of "meaning". This paper analyzes the contemporary expression strategies of traditional dance elements from three levels: the abstraction of movement structure, the symbolization of imagery expression, and the aesthetic reconstruction of bodily perception. It points out the dynamic relationship of being mutual surfaces and interiors, symbiosis, and resonance formed by "form" and "meaning" in contemporary creation. The study believes that the modern transformation of traditional dance elements should not stop at formal renewal, but should achieve the reappearance of cultural spirit and the contemporary rebirth of imagery through bodily perception and aesthetic generation.