Contemporary Transformation of Traditional Cultural Elements in Sculpture at China’s National Art Exhibition Since the 21st Century

Chinese traditional culture has rich contents after more than five thousand years of its history and development. This article examines the sculptures presented at five National Art Exhibitions held since the beginning of the 21st century, and analyzes the ways of contemporary transformation, the forms of representation, the value and significance, as well as the challenges and prospects of future development of traditional culture elements in sculpture. By analyzing the representative sculptures of the last five National Art Exhibitions, the article explores how elements of traditional culture are renewed and integrated into contemporary works. It shows how sculptors, while inheriting traditions, actively seek ways of artistic expression adapted to the demands of the times. It also theorizes and formulates recommendations for the further development of Chinese sculptural art.