The Culture of Chuxiong Yi Nationality “LaoHu Sheng”: The Original Human Art Study for Inheritance and Promotion

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the artistic origins and cultural significance of the Yi ethnic group's "LaoHu Sheng." The research objectives included: (1) analyzing the artistic characteristics and generation logic of the "LaoHu Sheng" from the perspective of Western theories of the origin of art (imitation theory, expression theory, witchcraft theory, etc.); (2) exploring its cultural connotations and social functions in the Chuxiong Yi society; and (3) revealing the value of the "LaoHu Sheng" in the inheritance and identity of contemporary ethnic culture. The study used the "LaoHu Sheng" performances and related groups in the Chuxiong area as samples, adopted a combination of literature review and participatory observation, and conducted a systematic study through content analysis.

The study results showed that: 1. The "LaoHu Sheng" embodied multiple origin motivations in its artistic form, including the imitation of natural forms and the externalization of ethnic emotions and beliefs while retaining ritual and witchcraft characteristics. 2. In terms of cultural function, the "LaoHu Sheng" was not only an important carrier of religious sacrifices and nature worship but also a core form of ethnic festivals and social interactions, which enhanced the cohesion and cultural identity of the ethnic group. 3. In the contemporary context, the "LaoHu Sheng," as an intangible cultural heritage, held significant value for preservation and inheritance while also providing a unique resource and practical case for the dissemination of national culture and artistic innovation.

Overall, this study reveals the multidimensional characteristics of "LaoHu Sheng" as a complex art and culture, providing new empirical support for cross-cultural research on theories of artistic origins.