In a recent interview, we explored the pivotal relationship between culture and national prosperity, encapsulated by the phrase, “The fate of culture is intertwined with the fate of the nation.”

The discussion began with a landmark event—the Artistic Work Symposium held on October 15, 2014, which marked a significant point in the pursuit of building a new cultural identity for the Chinese nation under the leadership of the Communist Party. General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasized the revival of the Chinese nation’s dream, addressing key issues regarding the flourishing of socialist art in contemporary times. His vision established a clear direction and a monumental blueprint for the artistic undertakings of this new era.

Over the past decade, under the guidance of the Central Committee headed by Xi Jinping, the landscape of Chinese art has flourished into a vibrant ecosystem, showcasing confidence and creativity reflective of the times we live in.

Reflecting on the importance of cultural prosperity, Xi stated, “Without the flourishing of Chinese culture, there will be no great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.” On the evening of September 29, 2024, a grand gathering at the Great Hall of the People celebrated the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, where over 3,000 attendees delighted in performances of classical and contemporary pieces, evoking the imagery of bold national revival.

Art has always been a cornerstone of government and society, offering direction and rallying the spirit of the people. The symposium clearly defined the historical position of art in the new era, framing it as essential for achieving the long-term goals and aspirations of the Chinese nation, affirming that “the role of art is irreplaceable; artists have a significant role to play.”

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, Xi, with deep historical awareness and cultural confidence, has responded to the new opportunities, challenges, and requirements facing the artistic community in today’s China. His approach includes modernizing the Marxist theory of art to align with the current age and engage the public, which has uplifted the Party’s understanding of artistic endeavors to new heights.

The dialogue continued as Xi emphasized the need for art to remain connected to the people and grounded in reality. He articulated that while there are countless methods of artistic creation, the most fundamental approach is to be rooted in the lives of the people. He underscored the importance of artistic integrity and moral character, calling on artists to unify their personal ethics with the societal impact of their work, thus pursuing excellence both in art and in virtue.

Xi has continuously highlighted the balance between heritage and innovation, encouraging artists to draw inspiration from the rich traditions of Chinese culture while breaking free from rigid conventions. This perspective aims to foster a new creative ecosystem that remains deeply connected to the spirit of the Chinese people.

During his interactions with artists and cultural figures, Xi has encouraged them to take on the mantle of leading the narrative of our times, urging them to reflect the profound changes of our era in their works and to capture the collective spirit of the people.

As China steps onto the global stage, it has become increasingly essential for its artists to articulate national sentiments and cultural values through innovative practices. The recent surge in popularity of works like the television drama “The Story of Xing Hai” exemplifies this trend, revealing the genuine narratives and struggles of ordinary people.

The discussion concluded with a focus on the responsibility of artists to serve the people. Xi’s belief is rooted in the idea that literature and art should always reflect the voices and needs of the masses, making cultural products that resonate with the public’s spiritual and cultural aspirations. This alignment not only enriches the artistic landscape but also fosters a greater sense of community and national identity.

The conversation about the role of culture in national rejuvenation underscores a critical theme: the interplay of material strength and spiritual resilience is essential for a nation’s revival. The flourishing of art and culture underlines a commitment to the mission of creating a new cultural paradigm to propel the great Chinese nation towards its future achievements.