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While rooted in ancient traditions, Regular Script (Kaishu) continues to be relevant in the modern world. It has evolved and adapted in various ways, while still maintaining its core characteristics and traditional aesthetic. It can be seen in modern fonts, design, and in the ongoing practice of calligraphers. One of the most prominent modern uses of Kaishu is in font design. Many digital fonts used in publishing and digital media are inspired by the classic forms of Kaishu. This means that even in the modern day, Kaishu is still widely visible. Contemporary calligraphers continue to practice and adapt Kaishu, often exploring new forms, techniques, and materials. Some artists incorporate new elements of design into the traditional forms while trying to remain true to their tradition. This constant evolution ensures that Kaishu is a living art form that is open to change. Kaishu is also used in art exhibitions, cultural events, and educational settings. It remains a vital component of Chinese art and culture and as a way to connect the modern age with the traditions of the past. The ancient art form is being preserved and practiced through continued teaching. Even outside of China, the beauty and precision of Kaishu are increasingly recognized and appreciated, and more and more people are taking up the study of calligraphy. The elegant and structured forms of Kaishu transcend cultural boundaries and have a universal appeal. |
Tag : modern kaishu, contemporary calligraphy, digital calligraphy fonts, kaishu in modern art, Chinese calligraphy today
This article examines the use of space (bai) in pre-Tang Kaishu composition, detailing how calligraphers used spacing within and around characters to create balance, harmony, and visual appeal, emphasizing its importance in the overall aesthetic.
This article highlights the often overlooked role of women in Tang Dynasty calligraphy, showcasing contributions from imperial consorts, noblewomen, and Buddhist nuns, revealing their engagement with the art form and broadening our understanding of its cultural landscape.
This article highlights the enduring legacy of pre-Tang Kaishu for modern calligraphers, discussing the importance of understanding its origins, embracing experimentation, focusing on technical mastery, and how its lessons continue to inspire and inform contemporary practice.
The Tang Dynasty marks a golden era in the development of kaishu, with two towering figures, Ouyang Xun and Yan Zhenqing, representing contrasting yet equally profound approaches to the script. This essay will explore and compare the distinctive styles of these two masters, showcasing the diverse possibilities within the formal framework of kaishu. We will start by analyzing Ouyang Xun's style, highlighting his refined elegance and meticulous precision. His calligraphy is characterized by a structured, geometric approach, where each character is crafted with precise strokes, carefully balanced proportions, and an overall sense of composure. We will look at examples of his work, emphasizing the sharp lines, subtle variations in thickness, and the consistent spacing, all of which contributes to his distinctive style of dignified refinement.
This article explores the importance of structure in Tang Kaishu, focusing on the application of the "eight principles of Yong," the emphasis on balance and proportion, and how these principles combined to create the unique and enduring beauty of the script.