Calligraphy, as an important part of Chinese traditional culture, is not only an art form, but also a way of life. It not only reflects the superb writing skills, but also reflects the calligrapher’s personal cultivation and inner world. In today’s society, the charm of calligraphy continues to attract people and becomes a part of many people’s lives. Especially in Taiwan, calligraphy culture has undergone a long historical evolution and formed a unique local style.
Taiwan’s calligraphy culture can be traced back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. With the arrival of Han immigrants, calligraphy, as an important carrier of cultural heritage, gradually took root in Taiwan. Initially, calligraphy was mainly used in official documents and private school education. With the development of society, calligraphy gradually became an important way for literati and scholars to express their emotions and thoughts.
After entering the 20th century, especially during the Japanese rule, Taiwan’s calligraphy was affected, but at the same time it also promoted the development of local calligraphy. Many Taiwanese calligraphers began to explore new styles and techniques during this period, combining tradition with modernity. In the postwar period, with the relocation of the Nationalist government, mainland calligraphy art once again influenced Taiwan, prompting new vitality in the local calligraphy community.
In contemporary society, calligraphy is no longer just a skill, it has become a part of many people’s lives. Many families use calligraphy works to decorate their homes during festivals or important occasions, such as Spring Festival couplets, greeting cards, etc. These works not only add to the festive atmosphere, but also express the yearning for a better life.
In addition, more and more people are beginning to join calligraphy classes or workshops to learn this traditional art. In these courses, not only are basic strokes and character shapes taught, but emphasis is also placed on the relationship between calligraphy and personal cultivation. In the process of learning calligraphy, people can not only improve their artistic accomplishment, but also find a trace of peace and tranquility in their busy lives.
As the calligraphy master Zeng Zhaozhi said, “If you write well, your cultivation will come naturally.” This sentence fully expresses that calligraphy is not only a technique, but also an external expression of inner cultivation. In the process of practicing calligraphy, people need to focus on every stroke. This concentration helps to improve self-cultivation and emotional management.
Many calligraphers believe that writing is a form of spiritual practice. When they paint, they are able to incorporate their own emotions and thoughts into their paintings, making each work full of vitality. Through communication between pen and ink, they not only expressed their love for life, but also conveyed their pursuit of beautiful things.
As the times change, Taiwan’s calligraphy culture is also constantly innovating and developing. Some young calligraphers have begun to try to combine traditional skills with modern elements, such as incorporating street graffiti and modern design into their works. They hope that in this way, calligraphy can become closer to contemporary people’s lives and more attractive.
For example, the “Calligraf2ity” school founded by the Japanese female calligrapher MAMI, which was introduced earlier, is a successful example of combining traditional calligraphy with contemporary graffiti elements. Such innovation not only enriches the expression of calligraphy, but also attracts more young people to participate in this art.
“There is a lifestyle called calligraphy” is not only an understanding of an art form, but also a pursuit of cultural connotations and personal cultivation. As time goes by, Taiwan’s calligraphy culture will continue to evolve and develop, retaining the essence of tradition while constantly exploring new possibilities. I hope that in the future more people will participate in this beautiful and profound art, and experience the charm and power of calligraphy together.
References:
https://melaka.sinchew.com.my/news/20230117/melaka/4412839?variant=zhhant
https://www.orientaldaily.com.my/news/longmen/2017/10/08/215685
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