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Bǐyì (笔意), or "brush intent," refers to the calligrapher's personal intention and expressiveness that is conveyed through their brushstrokes in Running Script (行书). More than just technical proficiency, bǐyì captures the unique spirit and inner feelings of the calligrapher, adding a layer of personal meaning to the artwork. The intention of the calligrapher is what helps to make the art so impactful. Bǐyì is not about following rules but about expressing one's own unique vision and personality through the art of calligraphy. The goal is to allow the personality of the artist to come through in the final presentation. This will make each work of art unique. The brush strokes can reveal the calligrapher's inner emotions, from joy and serenity to passion and grief. These strokes become a vehicle for personal expression and emotional connection. The brush strokes act as an extension of the artist’s heart and mind, revealing their personal character. Developing bǐyì requires a deep understanding of brushwork and a genuine desire to express oneself with authenticity and passion, allowing the work to serve as a window into the artist’s soul. The development of bǐyì is often considered to be the final stage in an artist's training. It is the culmination of skill, training and personal vision. Ultimately, bǐyì is what elevates Running Script from a skilled technique to a truly meaningful form of artistic expression, making each piece an unique and personal statement. It helps to elevate the calligraphic practice to a truly personal art form. The intent of the artist becomes what the viewer engages with. |
Tag : Brush Intent, Calligraphy Expression, Running Script Technique, Chinese Calligraphy
This article explores Running Script's historical role in personal correspondence, highlighting how its fluidity and expressiveness made it an ideal choice for capturing personal thoughts and emotions, and its value in the modern age.
This article emphasizes the role of personal interpretation in Running Script, explaining how it allows calligraphers to express their unique vision, style, and emotions within the framework of traditional techniques.
Regular Script, known as kaishu, represents a monumental achievement in the evolution of Chinese calligraphy, embodying an unparalleled level of formal balance and structural precision. Unlike the more fluid and expressive cursive scripts, kaishu adheres to a rigorous system of rules and guidelines. This structured approach is not a limitation, however, but rather a foundational element that allows for both precision and a subtle form of creative expression within its well-defined boundaries. The essay will begin by detailing the core principles of kaishu, emphasizing the importance of the eight basic strokes known as the "永字八法" (Yong character’s eight principles). Each stroke, from the horizontal line (横) to the hook (钩), requires specific brush handling techniques, including starting position, trajectory, pressure application, speed, and finishing point. Understanding these eight strokes forms the cornerstone of mastery in kaishu.
This article explores the importance of varied ink density in Running Script, highlighting how the manipulation of ink concentration allows calligraphers to create a range of expressive effects, from light and delicate to dark and powerful strokes.
This article underscores the importance of consistent practice in learning Running Script, highlighting its impact on muscle memory, awareness of tools, self-discovery, and overall improvement.