While Running Script (行书) allows for a greater degree of freedom than Regular Script (楷书), understanding the basic stroke order is still crucial for creating well-formed and balanced characters. A knowledge of the fundamental structure ensures that the expressive strokes are built on a solid foundation of good form. This practice is a crucial part of building skills in the art form. The fundamental stroke order is inherited from the Regular Script. The calligrapher must still pay attention to the overall structure of the character, while allowing for the freedom to adjust the connections and angles within each of the characters. This balance between the rules and the freedom allows for more self-expression. Understanding the stroke order also contributes to the flow and rhythm of the script. By following a logical sequence, the calligrapher can create more continuous and harmonious lines. The correct flow helps to create a balanced and easy to read work of art. The structure ensures that the work is readable and well formed. While some strokes may be abbreviated or connected in Running Script, the core principles of stroke order should not be ignored. A solid understanding of the basics can help the calligrapher express themselves with more freedom and accuracy. Understanding the fundamentals is essential for progress within the art form. Mastering the stroke order in Running Script is a continuous process of learning and refinement, and requires a keen understanding of both the structure and expressiveness of the script. It is an important step in developing a deeper connection to the art. Mastering this foundation is essential for any calligrapher. |
Tag : Stroke Order, Calligraphy Techniques, Running Script Structure, Chinese Calligraphy, Character Formation
This article discusses the future of Running Script, exploring how it is adapting to digital mediums, creating new opportunities for creation, sharing, interaction, and engagement, while ensuring that the traditional art form remains vibrant and accessible to new audiences.
This article examines the impact of different brush types on Running Script calligraphy, highlighting the unique characteristics of soft, stiff, and mixed-hair brushes and their influence on stroke quality and expressive potential.
This article explores the concept of “energy flow” (qìliú) in Running Script, detailing how it connects the calligrapher's inner energy with the strokes of the brush and how it creates a dynamic sense of movement and vitality.
Running script, xingshu, is not a static art form; it continues to evolve and inspire contemporary artists who are reinterpreting the tradition with new approaches and techniques. This essay will explore how contemporary calligraphers are pushing the boundaries of xingshu, while honoring its historical roots. We will begin by acknowledging the traditional roots of the script, and emphasize how contemporary calligraphers are deeply engaged with the rich history of xingshu. We will focus on the fact that the contemporary practice is not a rejection of history, but an active dialogue with the past.
This article focuses on the concept of "brush intent" (bǐyì) in Running Script, explaining how it reflects a calligrapher’s unique personality, inner feelings, and vision through the expressiveness of their brushstrokes.