习近平’s Speech at the Symposium on Literary and Artistic Work: A Callfor Artistic Excellence and Cultural Revival
Beijing, October 15, 2014 – On the 10th anniversary of the Symposium on Literary and Artistic Work, the October 16th issue of Qiushi magazinerepublished a speech delivered by Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the CentralMilitary Commission, on October 15, 2014.
In his speech, Xi Jinping emphasized the critical role of the arts and artists in the grand narrative of China’s development. He asserted that artistic endeavors arean essential undertaking for the Party and the people, and the artistic front is a crucial front for the Party and the people. He went on to state that art is the clarion call of progress, best embodying the spirit of an eraand shaping its prevailing ethos.
Xi Jinping underlined the irreplaceable role of the arts in achieving the Two Centenary Goals and the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation. He urged artists to recognize the significance of their work and the historical mission they bear, advocating for a people-centered creative approach. He called for the creationof more outstanding works that reflect the spirit of the times, foster Chinese national spirit, unite the Chinese people, and inspire them to confidently stride towards the future.
The speech highlighted the critical role of cultural prosperity in achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Xi Jinping stressed the importance of leveraging the power of art andartists in this endeavor. He acknowledged China’s rich cultural heritage and its capacity for creative innovation. He emphasized that in moments of historical significance, culture has always been a beacon, reflecting the changing fortunes of the nation, riding the crest of the times, and setting the pace of progress. He underscored the importance of artin shaping national spirit, establishing moral pillars, and building a spiritual home for the people.
Xi Jinping called on Chinese writers and artists to become pioneers of the times, leading the way in shaping the prevailing ethos. He urged them to create works that are grounded in principle, imbued with morality, and radiate warmth,capturing the great practices of the people and reflecting the progressive demands of the era.
The speech emphasized that the ultimate measure of an era’s artistic achievements lies in its works. Xi Jinping stressed the importance of creating outstanding works as the central focus of artistic endeavors. He called for the creation of more works that embody contemporary Chinese values,reflect the spirit of Chinese culture, and resonate with Chinese aesthetic sensibilities. These works, he argued, should seamlessly integrate thoughtfulness, artistry, and entertainment value.
Xi Jinping emphasized innovation as the lifeblood of art. He called for the infusion of innovative spirit throughout the entire creative process, enhancing the originality of artistic works. Heunderscored the need for a large contingent of artists who are both morally upright and artistically accomplished to foster artistic creation and innovation.
References:
- 习近平在文艺工作座谈会上的讲话 (Chinese)
- 习近平：文艺是时代前进的号角 (Chinese)
Note: This article is a summary and interpretation of Xi Jinping’s speech at the Symposium on Literary and Artistic Work. It is not an official translation of the speech.
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