Gardens by the people, scenes from the mind — A brief talk on people and nature of Chinese garden landscape

摘要

Chinese people have invariably advocated the beauty of nature and praised highly about the world view and methodology of Buddhism and Taoism. Chinese traditional gardens form an important part of its culture. As a carrier of culture, not only does it reflect objectively and authentically the history of each dynasty, the booms and busts of their economy and the level of their technology, but also mirrors the development of Chinese people's outlook on nature, life and the world. It contains the philosophy and religious belief of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism and is greatly influenced by some traditional art forms like scenic poetry and landscape painting. This essay focuses on disclose the deep spiritual pursuit of Chinese people while constructing the gardens through its philosophy and culture background. It distillates the traditional idea of constructing the gardens is if with the hand of the God to a higher level. The author believes that gardens were made by the People, but scenes came from the mind. The discussion on the inner secrets and aesthetic value of Chinese ancient gardens is very instructive to the construction of modern gardens in our country.