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Mastering Regular Script (Kaishu) requires a deep understanding of its fundamental elements, especially stroke order and various stroke techniques. These foundational elements are essential for creating well-formed characters, and mastery of these fundamentals takes significant time, patience, and dedication. They are the foundation upon which the art form is built. Stroke order is critical in Kaishu. The order in which the strokes are made when forming each character is standardized. This order is not arbitrary, but rather follows established principles that ensure efficiency and visual harmony. Learning the correct stroke order is essential to avoid mistakes. Proper stroke order contributes to the visual appeal of a character, as well as the ease with which it can be created. There are eight fundamental strokes in Kaishu, sometimes called the 'Eight Principles of Yong'. These include the horizontal stroke, the vertical stroke, the left-falling stroke, the right-falling stroke, the upward-rising stroke, the dot, the upward hook, and the downward hook. Each of these strokes has its own unique form and its own unique set of rules. The execution of each stroke requires specific techniques of brush handling, including how to load the brush with ink and how to control the pressure and speed of each stroke. The beginning of the stroke, called the qi bi (起筆), the middle of the stroke, and the end of the stroke, called the shou bi (收筆), all require precision and awareness. The proper manipulation of the brush is critical for mastery of the art form. Consistent practice is essential for refining these stroke techniques. Beginners often focus on mastering the basic strokes, gradually progressing to more complex stroke combinations. This incremental approach to learning is a key element of Chinese calligraphy and requires dedication and time. |
Tag : kaishu stroke order, calligraphy techniques, eight principles of yong, brush strokes, learning kaishu
This article examines the use of ink and color in Tang Kaishu, highlighting the calligraphers' skill in manipulating ink density, using varied tones, and occasionally adding color to enhance the beauty, dynamism, and expressive qualities of their work.
This article explores the evolution of Tang Kaishu by examining various stele inscriptions, showcasing how styles changed over the course of the dynasty, reflecting the influence of Ouyang Xun, Yan Zhenqing, and Liu Gongquan, and how these changes showcase the overall progression of the craft.
This article provides a closer look at the materials and tools used in Tang Dynasty calligraphy, detailing the types of brushes, ink, paper, and other implements, and how these components influenced the overall quality and style of the art form.
While kaishu is often perceived as a formal and structured script, a closer examination reveals its capacity to convey a broad range of emotions. This essay will explore how calligraphers manipulate the elements of kaishu to express feelings, moods, and personal states, demonstrating that even within strict rules, the script can be highly expressive. The essay will begin by focusing on stroke weight and its impact on emotional expression. We will analyze how variations in line thickness can evoke feelings of lightness, heaviness, strength, or fragility. We will discuss how thin, delicate lines can convey a sense of elegance and refinement, while thick, bold strokes can express power and determination.
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.