Chinese calligraphy
新婦地黃湯帖 by Wang Xianzhi
Chinese name
Traditional Chinese 書法
Simplified Chinese 書法
Chinese calligraphy is a form of esthetically pleasing writing (calligraphy), or, the artistic expression of human language in a tangible form. This type of expression has been widely practiced in China and has been generally highly esteemed in the Chinese cultural sphere (including, historically, for example, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam). There are some general standardizations of the various styles of calligraphy in this tradition. Chinese calligraphy and ink and wash painting are closely related: they are accomplished using similar tools and techniques, and have a long history of shared artistry. Distinguishing features of Chinese painting and calligraphy include an emphasis on motion charged with dynamic life. According to Stanley-Baker, 'Calligraphy is sheer life experienced through energy in motion that is registered as traces on silk or paper, with time and rhythm in shifting space its main ingredients.' Calligraphy has also led to the development of many forms of art in China, including seal carving, ornate paperweights, and inkstones.
Calligraphy by Mi Fu
In China, calligraphy is referred to as Shūfǎ (書法/書法), literally: 'the way/method/law of writing';Shodō (書道/書道) in Japan (literally: 'the way/principle of writing'); and Seoye (??; 書藝) in Korea (literally: 'the skill/criterion of writing').
Chinese calligraphy is normally regarded as one of the 'arts' (Chinese 藝術(shù)/藝術(shù) pinyin: yìshù) in the countries where it is practised. Chinese calligraphy focuses not only on methods of writing but also on cultivating one's character (人品) and taught as a pursuit (－書法; pinyin: shūfǎ, 'the rules of writing Han characters').
Calligraphy is also considered an art (藝術(shù)/藝術(shù); pinyin: yìshù, a relatively recent word meaning 'art') where works are appreciated more or only for their aesthetic qualities.
上虞帖 by Wang Xizhi
Traditionally, the bulk of the study of calligraphy is composed of copying strictly exemplary works from the apprentice's master or from reputed calligraphers, thus learning them by rote. The master showing the 'right way' to draw items, which the apprentice have to copy strictly, continuously, until the move becomes instinctive and the copy perfect. Deviation from the model is seen as a failure. Competency in a particular style often requires many years of practice. Correct strokes, stroke order, character structure, balance, and rhythm are essential in calligraphy. A student would also develop their skills in traditional Chinese arts, as familiarity and ability in the arts contributes to their calligraphy.
雁塔聖教序 by Chu Suiliang
Since the development of regular script, nearly all calligraphers have started their study by imitating exemplary models of regular script. A beginning student may practice writing the character 永 (Chinese: yǒng, eternal) for its abundance of different kinds of strokes and difficulty in construction. The Eight Principles of Yong refers to the eight different strokes in the character, which some argue summarizes the different strokes in regular script.
顏勤禮碑 by Yan Zhenqing
How the brush is held depends on the calligrapher and which calligraphic genre is practiced. Commonly, the brush is held vertically straight gripped between the thumb and middle finger. The index finger lightly touches the upper part of the shaft of the brush (stabilizing it) while the ring and little fingers tuck under the bottom of the shaft, leaving a space inside the palm. Alternatively, the brush is held in the right hand between the thumb and the index finger, very much like a Western pen. A calligrapher may change his or her grip depending on the style and script. For example, a calligrapher may grip higher for cursive and lower for regular script.
By Zhao long tao
Basic calligraphy instruction is part of the regular school curriculum in both China and Japan and specialized programs of study exist at the higher education level in China, Korea, and Japan. In contemporary times, debate emerged on the limits of this copyist tradition within the modern art scenes, where innovation is the rule, while changing lifestyles, tools, and colors are also influencing new waves of masters.
Chinese calligraphy is being promoted in Chinese schools to counter Character amnesia brought on by technology usage.
