A systematic literature review of ecological communication of ceramic art

Abstract

The evolution of ceramic art is closely tied to socio-economic changes and artistic movements, reflecting diverse cultural histories and material developments. Contemporary ceramic art explores the enduring relationship between nature, the environment, and human expression, promoting a global perspective beyond regional boundaries. This aligns with Niklas Luhmann’s ecological communication theory, which examines the interaction between social systems and environmental issues. This study provides a structured overview of current research, highlighting differences between Chinese and international perspectives while emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of ceramic art. A systematic literature review was conducted based on the PRISMA 2020 statement. Literature was retrieved from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Scopus using defined inclusion criteria, and the selection process was documented using a PRISMA-compliant flow diagram and checklist. Ceramic art research integrates materials science, sociology, and environmental studies, fostering a deeper understanding of artistic practice while validating systems theory in ecological communication. Despite extensive studies on technological advancements, artistic styles, and regional creative variations, the application of ecological communication theory to ceramic art remains underexplored. This study situates ceramic art within Luhmann’s ecological communication framework, provides a unifying perspective that connects artistic practice with environmental discourse and social sustainability.