Chinese calligraphy is an Oriental tradition rooted in centuries of practice. It is an art of turning square Chinese characters into expressive images by the responsiveness of rice paper and speed and pressure of a pointed Chinese brush. Chinese calligraphy is music without sound - a most relaxing yet highly disciplined exercise for one's physical and spiritual well being.
It is considered as an active way of keeping one fit and healthy for the practice is either relaxing or self-entertaining. Historically, many calligraphy artists were well known for their longevity.
It is said that the five virtues of “benevolence, righteousness, politeness, wisdom, and honesty” mentioned by the Confucianism also are imbedded in Chinese calligraphy, and they complement and complete each other.
‘The core of Chinese culture is philosophy, and at the center of the core is Chinese calligraphy.’
Xiong Bingming, (1922 - 2002)
a poet, philosopher, sculptor, painter, calligrapher and art professor
‘Had I been born Chinese, I would have been a calligrapher, not a painter.’
Pablo Picasso (1881 - 1973)
a Spanish painter and sculptor
