A Study of Architectural Design Approaches Informed by the Relationship Between Painting and Garden Aesthetics in the Context of Song Dynasty Literary Gatherings: A Case Study of Jiān Yú Garden

Abstract

Garden art has always held a significant place in traditional Chinese culture. During the Song Dynasty, literati, with their unique aesthetic perspectives and creative methods, produced a wide range of garden designs, creating a high level of aesthetic value. Literati excursions served as a vital means of promoting cultural prosperity and artistic creation. Excursions, as a form of social gathering among Northern Song literati, emerged as a defining activity of the era. This paper aims to delve into the incorporation of painting and narrative into garden design and garden exploration by studying the literature and images associated with Song Dynasty literati excursions. Using Jiān Yú Garden as a case study, the paper discusses the corresponding architectural design approaches and their applicability in contemporary garden architecture practice. It explores a garden design methodology imbued with cultural and artistic value.