Courses
VART2126 Chinese Word as Image: Foundational Studies in Chinese Calligraphy and Seal Engraving (3 units)
- Prerequisite:
- VART1006 Visual Arts Practice II or any GDCV courses offered by AVA or any Visual Arts courses
The centrality of using Chinese words as the major element in artistic expressions is a unique and prominent phenomenon in both Chinese and global visual culture from past to present. Chinese words, as evolved from pictographic representation to non-representational character, is the fundamental medium for artistic expressions in the practices of a range of Chinese art forms including calligraphy, seal engraving and other craft arts. Whether brushed on paper or engraved in three-dimensional objects made of stone, bronze and any other penetrable material, the visual and artistic form of Chinese word interacts with the subtlety of the linguistic aspect of Chinese language to produce a richly interdisciplinary artistic experience. This course consists of three parts: (1) The study of foundational knowledge and theories pertinent to the material, tools, and the linguistic skills involved in the practices of Chinese calligraphy and seal engraving; (2) The practical study of brush, engraving and carving techniques, the compositional strategies of the strokes of Chinese characters and other relevant basic skills; and (3) A simple hands-on studio art project. The class will learn the skills of adopting different material, handling of tools and other basic techniques of Chinese calligraphy and seal engraving through demonstrations and guided practice. The course culminates in a small-scale yet rewarding creative project where by students will produce one piece of artwork based on the application of their acquired concepts, tools and skills. Students need to the foundational tools and skills of this course to nurture their understanding of Chinese cultural heritage. The acquire foundational knowledge and experience offered by this course are intended to cultivate a synergy with all other courses of Chinese and Asian art history, visual culture, Chinese calligraphy, seal engraving, Chinese painting, typography, Chinese language, and some aspects of sculpture.