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For those new to Regular Script (Kaishu), starting can seem daunting, but with the right approach and techniques, it can be a very rewarding journey. Consistent practice, the right tools, and focusing on the fundamentals will lay a solid foundation for future growth. The first step is to assemble the right tools, which include a good quality brush, ink, inkstone, and suitable paper. These tools will feel unique when first handled and will take some time to learn their nuances. Begin by learning how to properly load the brush with ink and how to control its movement on the paper. Proper handling of the brush is critical to mastery of the art form. Start by practicing the basic strokes, such as the horizontal, vertical, and dot. These fundamental strokes are the building blocks of all Kaishu characters. Focus on achieving proper form and balance in each stroke, and always remember to practice patience as this will not be an overnight mastery. Repetition is key to mastering stroke shapes and patterns. It's essential to practice stroke order. Start by tracing model characters from a trusted source, and make sure that the proper stroke order is followed as these habits will be ingrained in your practice. Once you are familiar with the basic principles, then begin practicing independently. Remember, there are no short cuts, and mastery takes time. It is helpful to review the work of master calligraphers. Find a copy of a work that you like, and then try to copy it yourself. This will help you to develop an understanding of the aesthetic and structural principals of Kaishu. This practice will also develop your technical abilities as you strive to emulate the style. |
Tag : learning kaishu, regular script practice, calligraphy tips, beginner calligraphy, calligraphy techniques for beginners
This article details the significant influence of Buddhism on pre-Tang Kaishu, explaining how the copying of sutras provided opportunities to develop and refine clear, legible writing, contributing to the evolution of Regular Script and embedding it with spiritual significance.
The final essay in this series will synthesize the key themes discussed throughout, culminating in an understanding of how the seemingly rigid structure of kaishu creates a universe of balanced proportions and profound beauty. We will reiterate the central principles of kaishu—the “永字八法” (Yong character’s eight principles), structural proportions, and the consistent application of technical skills—emphasizing how these principles combine to create the script’s characteristic order. We will discuss how this structured approach provides a framework for expressive possibilities, where even minute variations can have a significant impact on the aesthetic character of the work.
This article explores the influence of Tang Kaishu on modern Chinese typography, highlighting how its clarity, structure, and elegance have inspired the creation of new fonts, which designers use for branding, packaging, and advertising, demonstrating the continued relevance of this ancient script.
This article explores the social status of calligraphers during the Tang Dynasty, highlighting how different groups, from scholar-officials to professional artisans and Buddhist monks, shaped the development of the script with their unique social contexts and values.
This article discusses the significant role of stele inscriptions in shaping early Kaishu, highlighting how stone carving influenced stroke structure, promoted legibility, and preserved diverse styles, providing valuable insights into the script's development.