Chinese Calligraphy and Modern Expression
Why I Work with Chinese Calligraphy
Painted Calligraphy (绘画书法) is my personal approach to combining the discipline of traditional Chinese calligraphy with the freedom of contemporary abstract painting.
Since I’m not Chinese, one might wonder why I attach so much importance to this aspect of art. There are essentially 3 reasons: I consider traditional Chinese calligraphy to be one of the most challenging and superior art forms. Only after years of diligent practice can you reach a level that is satisfactory for yourself and for the trained viewer.
Probably no living calligrapher, whether Chinese or Westerner, is enough to match the former great Chinese masters. The challenge for living artists is to create something that at least honors the old ideas. And also conveys modern content.
overpainted calligraphy
Another personal reason is that calligraphy itself is a challenge, with the mastery of which I can see in myself whether and how far I am developing. This can best be compared to classical music. For years you played certain pieces by Bach, for example, and based on the theoretical and practical implementation. You can see whether there is progress or you are standing still.
traditional calligraphy
Alongside Painted Calligraphy, I continue to practise and develop traditional Chinese calligraphy. It is the ideal medium to explore the new territory of abstract art from my earlier years of figurative painting.
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