This section will introduce some theoretical knowledge about Chinese calligraphy. You know, learning the theory can help us improve our calligraphy skills and write better.
This article was written by Teacher Gu Dian, who uses the vivid analogy of mopping and sweeping floors to describe two different brush techniques in Chinese calligraphy and the distinct effects they create. I believe this will be helpful to everyone, so I’m sharing it here. The full article is as follows: There are two…
Whether in calligraphy textbooks or from Chinese calligraphy teachers, when students first begin learning Chinese brush writing, they often encounter a fundamental concept called the “Eight Principles of Yong” (永字八法). But what exactly are the Eight Principles of Yong? Why do calligraphy beginners need to practice the Eight Principles of Yong first? And is mastering…
The calligraphy styles of teachers Tian Yunzhang and Tian Yingzhang have always sparked considerable debate in the Chinese calligraphy community. Fans of these two teachers praise them enthusiastically, while critics dismiss their work harshly. Many people wonder: what exactly is the difference between Tian Yingzhang’s modern regular script and traditional Ouyang Xun style? What characteristics…
Many people often wonder about a fundamental question: how to appreciate Chinese calligraphy? What makes a calligraphy work good? This article comes from Mochi, a highly respected public account among calligraphy professionals. I find it extremely comprehensive, so I’m sharing it here for everyone’s reference on how to appreciate Chinese calligraphy. The full text is…
Recently, some calligraphy enthusiasts in the Qi Ming calligraphy group asked about two fundamental brushwork techniques in Chinese calligraphy. Today, Qi Ming will explain these techniques by referencing an article from City Business Daily, along with helpful images to make these concepts easy to understand. This guide will help anyone learning Chinese calligraphy improve their…
Learning Chinese calligraphy requires more than just practice—it requires learning how to “read” calligraphy works. But what exactly should we look for when reading calligraphy? How do we train our eyes to see what matters? Previously, Qi Ming touched on this topic in the article “Copying Chinese Calligraphy: A Complete Guide for Beginners.” However, due…
“I’m a beginner at copying Chinese calligraphy. How should I practice?” This is a question many Chinese calligraphy enthusiasts frequently ask me on WeChat. Today, Qi Ming is sharing my own experience with copying Chinese calligraphy to help beginners master this traditional art form. Essential Preparation Before Copying Chinese Calligraphy Before you officially start copying…
How Did Ancient Chinese Calligraphers Hold Their Brushes?Have you ever thought about this question? Today I’m sharing an article originally titled “How Did Wang Xizhi Hold His Brush? Experts Say He May Have Used the ‘Two-Finger Method’,” originally published in Yangtze Evening News. Qi Ming finds this very interesting (though this doesn’t necessarily represent my…
Understanding the differences between resting wrist, suspended wrist, and suspended elbow techniques is straightforward for experienced Chinese calligraphy practitioners. However, many beginners find themselves confused about these fundamental hand positions. The main questions beginners ask are: What exactly are resting wrist, suspended wrist, and suspended elbow techniques? Which method should I start with as a…
