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The connection between Running Script (行书) and Chinese landscape painting is profound. Both art forms emphasize natural flow, rhythmic movement, and the expressive use of ink and brush. The influence of landscape painting is often clearly seen in many works of calligraphy. The two art forms are often intertwined and inform one another. The sense of movement found in landscape paintings, depicting mountains, rivers, and forests, is mirrored in the flowing lines of Running Script. The use of brush and ink are common across these two art forms. The dynamic use of the ink creates a visual movement that mirrors that of landscapes. The use of negative space, or Kōngbái, in both landscape painting and Running Script is crucial for creating balance and visual harmony. The use of space in the compositions allows the viewer’s eye to rest. This space serves as a counterpoint to the use of ink, adding to the complexity of the work. The techniques of brushwork, with variations in pressure and speed, are also shared across the two art forms. The techniques used in landscape painting are often applicable to those used in calligraphy. The two art forms often inform each other, adding additional layers of meaning. Understanding the influence of landscape painting on Running Script enriches one’s appreciation for the depth and complexity of both art forms, highlighting their shared artistic and philosophical principles. The interrelation between these art forms offers a unique window into Chinese culture. This understanding is an important element of mastering either art form. |
Tag : Landscape Painting, Calligraphy Influence, Running Script Art, Chinese Art, Ink Wash Painting
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Running script, xingshu, is not a static art form; it continues to evolve and inspire contemporary artists who are reinterpreting the tradition with new approaches and techniques. This essay will explore how contemporary calligraphers are pushing the boundaries of xingshu, while honoring its historical roots. We will begin by acknowledging the traditional roots of the script, and emphasize how contemporary calligraphers are deeply engaged with the rich history of xingshu. We will focus on the fact that the contemporary practice is not a rejection of history, but an active dialogue with the past.
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.