Rhythm and Technique: Mastering the Art of Chinese Calligraphy
Chinese Calligraphy – Rhythm is Everything in Calligraphy
Characters
In Chinese calligraphy, the artistic side of writing is just as important as the literary meaning. A good calligrapher is like a dancer who must learn choreographed movements while keeping a sense of compositional order. Rhythm brings vitality to the work and makes it more alive.
Students will begin to learn the shapes and basic strokes of Chinese characters. They will also practice the correct way of holding a brush and the proper hand position.
Traditionally, the bulk of a student’s calligraphic education was accomplished by copying exemplary works from their master and other famous calligraphers. They were expected to imitate the exemplars strictly until they became automatic. Then the student could move forward in his or her own style. In addition to its purely visual aspect, the art of calligraphy is rich in Chinese history and culture. It is considered one of the four most prestigious skills and hobbies of ancient Chinese literati, along with stringed musical instruments, the board game Go, and painting.
Techniques
To make your letters look consistent, it’s important to use the same stroke length for each letter. Also, you’ll need to practice making thick and thin lines. It’s also helpful to have a basic understanding of the different parts of a letter, like the base line, ascender line and descender line.
Chapters 1-2 provide an overview of the basic tools and techniques that you’ll need to learn calligraphy. It’s a good idea to read through these chapters even if you already have some experience with the art form, as they will remind you of the rules and basics that are essential for successful lettering.
If you’re new to the art of calligraphy, 1-2-3 Calligraphy will give you a chance to try out some new alphabets and creative projects that will help you develop your skills and maybe turn this into a lifelong interest. You’ll be able to create eye-catching signs, design your own stationery, address colorful envelopes, and make beautiful calligrams.