Calligraphy is the art of writing using Chinese character; and its in China is closely associated with the special style of the Chinese characters, which has been in existence for the past 3000 years.
When writing Chinese characters, emphasis is placed on the change in the strip and lines as well as spacing between the characters.
Calligraphy is not only peculiar to Chinese cultural gem but also the elite and essence of the worldwide culture. Chinese calligraphy is an ancient art; it developed with the development of Chinese civilization. The most renowned calligraphers include Wang Xizhi, Wang Xianzhi, Zhang Xu and Yan Zhening.
Few people in this world own such a special art; calligraphy as an artistic creation has the profound and deep image, mysteries, special skills and commitment, as well as proficiency required in the day to day activities of the discipline.
Its spread and expansion did not draw much attraction in the previous centuries, mainly because of the uniqueness and creative ability required to function effectively as a calligrapher; but in the process of china’s civilization, the art basically was recognized as character element in the building of Chinese calligraphy, and it has since then been transmitted as an art form from generation to generation.
It takes several years for ordinary individual to learn the character because of the skills and creativity that is involved in the writing process. The art of inscription on bones and bronzes, big seal and small seal, its composition and structure in the early period had really helped the spread of calligraphy beyond the shores of China.
The art of calligraphy forms the poetic structure of this art form. This is demonstrated by virtues of agility, stability and levity of brush strokes. The calligrapher’s brush is the extension of his hand and the deliberate slowness, motion, pause, and transition which are all mastered by calligrapher, shows the objectiveness, flexibility, emotion and sentiments.
Calligraphy reflects their life experiences, self-cultivation and passion. And as the saying goes, “the calligraphy is equal to the calligrapher’s personality and cultivation, and the expression of the calligrapher’s inner self.”
In summary, calligraphy reflects the fundamental character of Chinese art. Chinese painting and calligraphy distinguish themselves from other cultural art forms, because they emphasize motion and it is a reflection Chinese culture.
Segun Adegbaju
Asst. Director, O&C
NICO HQ
(From Beijing, China)