Confucian Aesthetics in Migration: Critical Strategies and Visual Translation in Malaysian Chinese Art

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Very interesting topic and analysis adding new insights to Confucianism in art and especially in Malaysian art and society. There are very interesting findings about the ways that the concepts of benevolence and harmony have transformed and keep transforming reflecting the social transformations. Also the data illustrates well the marked differences that family background & support as well as gender have on the ways that art students feel about these issues and apparently also about art. In short, this is well-thought and constructed study that provides important insights that have plenty of use for further research in art & society, not to mention Confucianism itself. I am glad to support publishing the articles as it is. 

Author Response

Please check the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

Thank you for allowing me to read your paper.
It provides a valuable conceptual exploration of the relationship between authenticity, aura and technological mediation in contemporary art contexts. Engaging with influential theorists such as Walter Benjamin, it applies these ideas to artistic practices that challenge conventional understandings of originality, reproduction and presence. The manuscript demonstrates a strong engagement with existing scholarship and makes a compelling case for reconsidering the transformation of aura in technologically mediated art rather than its loss.
That said, there are areas where the argument could be further developed and clarified. At times, the discussion moves quickly between theoretical references and contemporary examples without fully bridging the two. For instance, although Benjamin’s framework is central to the paper, it could benefit from more explicit articulation of how the selected artistic cases embody, challenge or expand his concepts. This would strengthen the analysis's coherence and highlight the paper's originality.
While the paper situates itself well within existing debates, the conclusion could be sharpened to emphasise the argument's broader implications more effectively. How might rethinking the concept of 'aura' through digital and post-digital practices contribute to art history, cultural theory, and aesthetics as a whole? Reflecting more explicitly on the significance of these findings beyond the case studies would increase the paper’s scholarly impact.
Finally, while the text is clear, the overall structure could be improved by adding stronger signposting and transitions to make it more reader-friendly. This would help guide readers through the progression of the argument, ensuring that the paper’s theoretical depth remains accessible and understandable.

Author Response

Please check the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf