Learning from the Masters in the Past and Cultivating the Individual: Realization of the Contemporary Aesthetic Value of ZHANG Daqian’s Artistic Spirit

Promoting aesthetic education in higher education requires drawing on outstanding traditional Chinese arts. As a paradigm of the integration of tradition and modernity, ZHANG Daqian, a world-famous master of Chinese painting, offers his artistic philosophy as a valuable resource for resolving current dilemmas in aesthetic education. His philosophy centers on emulating from the masters in the past and cultivating the individual. It embodies innovation through classical studies, Chinese-Western integration, and patriotic sentiments. This constructs a logical system ranging from classical techniques to vision refinement and educational implementation. ZHANG’s artistic practices provide exemplary models for cultivating aesthetic literacy and cultural identity. They also encourage innovative exploration and serve as a benchmark for elevating moral realm and humanistic character. In this way, they fulfill the functions of cultural inheritance, innovation, empathy, and social responsibility. The master’s career demonstrates that the essence of aesthetic education lies in continuing tradition, nurturing innovation, and fostering a sound personality. Therefore, practical paths are proposed to advance contemporary aesthetic education.