Welcome to the Hengshan Calligraphy Art Center. You are now entering the exhibition Breath and Brushstrokes, a journey through the evolving art of calligraphy as envisioned by Chu Chen Nan. Born in 1952, Chu Chen Nan has dedicated his artistic career to the practice of calligraphy and ink-wash painting. His foundation is deeply rooted in classical calligraphic traditions, yet his artistic language extends beyond conventional boundaries. Through years of practice and contemplation, he has developed a distinctive approach that merges the spirit of tradition with a contemporary sensibility.
This exhibition explores the concept of “the Moment” and unfolds across five sections. With nearly sixty works on display, it offers a glimpse into Chu’s artistic inquiries in recent years. His calligraphy invites multiple interpretations. At first glance, his brushstrokes embody the discipline and structure of calligraphic forms. Yet, upon closer reflection, his lines seem to carry an expressive energy—imbued with the rhythm and emotion of the present moment.
Chu Chen Nan also embraces crossover and experimentation, blending calligraphy with other artistic disciplines. Some works incorporate installation elements, allowing the art to engage directly with space, inviting viewers to reconsider the boundaries of traditional calligraphy.
In doing so, his work does not simply depart from tradition; rather, it reinterprets and expands upon its essence. His approach reveals the connections between the past and present, offering a contemporary vision of calligraphy that is both reflective and forward-looking.
As you move through the exhibition, take a moment to observe how each brushstroke breathes—how ink, space, and gesture come together in dialogue. In this interplay of movement and stillness, you may discover the quiet yet profound transformation that calligraphy can embody.
Back to homepage
Back