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While rooted in ancient traditions, Regular Script (Kaishu) continues to be relevant in the modern world. It has evolved and adapted in various ways, while still maintaining its core characteristics and traditional aesthetic. It can be seen in modern fonts, design, and in the ongoing practice of calligraphers. One of the most prominent modern uses of Kaishu is in font design. Many digital fonts used in publishing and digital media are inspired by the classic forms of Kaishu. This means that even in the modern day, Kaishu is still widely visible. Contemporary calligraphers continue to practice and adapt Kaishu, often exploring new forms, techniques, and materials. Some artists incorporate new elements of design into the traditional forms while trying to remain true to their tradition. This constant evolution ensures that Kaishu is a living art form that is open to change. Kaishu is also used in art exhibitions, cultural events, and educational settings. It remains a vital component of Chinese art and culture and as a way to connect the modern age with the traditions of the past. The ancient art form is being preserved and practiced through continued teaching. Even outside of China, the beauty and precision of Kaishu are increasingly recognized and appreciated, and more and more people are taking up the study of calligraphy. The elegant and structured forms of Kaishu transcend cultural boundaries and have a universal appeal. |
Tag : modern kaishu, contemporary calligraphy, digital calligraphy fonts, kaishu in modern art, Chinese calligraphy today
This article discusses the calligraphic innovations of the mid-Tang period, highlighting how artists moved beyond established Kaishu styles, experimenting with new stroke techniques, character forms, and individual expression, adding diversity to the script’s development.
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 emotional range of Tang Kaishu, highlighting how calligraphers used brushstrokes, ink density, and composition to convey a wide spectrum of human emotions, demonstrating the expressive power of this seemingly formal script.
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.
This article explores the impact of the Three Kingdoms period on early Kaishu, detailing how regional differences and the need for clear communication spurred innovation in stroke structure and character composition, bridging the gap between Li Shu and later Kaishu forms.