The Symbolic Value Of Design Education At The Guangzhou Academy Of Fine Arts

Abstract

The main subject of this study is the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts (GAFA), the most representative design school in Southern China. The study has three main objectives: (1) Explore the Symbolic Value of GAFA for Design Education Reform. (2) Investigate the Distinctive Features of Design Education at GAFA. (3) Analyze the Outcomes of GAFA’s Design Education. The research methodology employs a mixed-method approach combining qualitative and quantitative research. It involves collecting literature and conducting interviews with key figures involved in GAFA's design education reform for document analysis, thereby identifying key terms. Additionally, through a questionnaire survey, it gathers data on the perception of GAFA among faculty members from design institutions in South China influenced by GAFA's design education reform. This process aims to analyze the symbolic significance of GAFA as a symbol. Clarify the impact of GAFA's design education on Chinese design education; Present the symbolic significance of GAFA's design education and its achievements. Situated in Southern China, GAFA is deeply influenced by Lingnan culture. Its design education vividly demonstrates the impact of regional culture. Therefore, GAFA's design education represents a valuable case study within China, offering significant research value.