Abstract

How does one externalize the soul concealed by the physical body? How does one grasp the energy embodied within oneself? The answer is Chinese Calligraphy. This research project demonstrates, through brushwork, the connections between the spiritual and the physical, the language and the culture, and the seen and the unseen.

The uniqueness of the project is the study of Qi. It holds a very complex and intricate relationship with calligraphy. Through research of ancient Chinese texts present in the book A Brief History of Qi by Yu Huan Zhang and Ken Rose, we will attempt to show this relationship – the intricacy between Qi and calligraphy. This is done to present the mystical and philosophical qualities of calligraphy.

The methods include, a poster, and a live demonstration by us. Through the demonstration, viewers will be able to witness how energy can be transferred from soul to paper in the form of a written language and art. What we present here is a work in progress for our Calligraphy class as our comprehension of the importance of Qi and calligraphy develops.