A Comparative Study on the Visual Styles of Kelantan and Shaanxi Shadow Puppets

Xiaochun, Cheng (2025) A Comparative Study on the Visual Styles of Kelantan and Shaanxi Shadow Puppets. PhD thesis, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak.

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Abstract

This research aims to compare the shadow puppets in Kelantan, Malaysia and Shaanxi, China by providing new insights into the preservation and development of this traditional art form through cross-cultural comparative analyses using qualitative and inductive methods along with elements and principles of design, Iconography, Cultural Anthropology, and Gestalt theory. The objectives of this research are to (1) analyse the visual style variations in shadow puppets from these two regions, (2) investigate how social and cultural influences the shadow puppets in these two regions and (3) explore ways of emphasizing cultural identity in a globalized context. The research unfolds in four phases. First, is the historical and cultural review which explores the craftsmanship, performance, carving techniques, stage settings, and storytelling styles. Followed by an examination of the visual elements and design principles in both regions, analysing changes in styles, investigating societal and cultural influences, and exploring approaches emphasizing cultural identity in the context of globalization. Contributions encompassed innovative research methods revealing influences on visual styles, with findings highlighting disparities in cultural contexts, carving techniques, visual styles, and cultural influences between Kelantan and Shaanxi. The study underscored cultural diversity preservation, advocating augmented and virtual reality use, and adapting traditional visual art to contemporary contexts. It offers key insights into visual styles, diversity preservation, and interdisciplinary research. Recommendations suggest exploring intangible cultural heritage conservation and expanding research methods to understand cultural differences in traditional art.

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