Calligraphy exhibition honors Chinese literary tradition

A calligraphy exhibition by Chao Daishuang, a research fellow at the National Museum of China and director of the Institute of Ancient Chinese Calligraphy, opened June 6 in Beijing, highlighting his decades of research and artistic achievement.

Chao Daishuang speaks at the opening ceremony of his calligraphy exhibition in Beijing, China, June 6, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

At the opening ceremony, Chao spoke of the profound reverence inspired by ancient calligraphic works, noting that they embody the intellectual spirit and philosophical depth of China's traditional scholars.

Koh Hock Kiat, founding dean of the Confucius Institute at Nanyang Technological University, also attended the event. He called calligraphy "the soul of Chinese culture," saying its integration with classical poetry and wisdom can exert a subtle yet profound influence on children's upbringing.

After the ceremony, Chao spoke with attendees, stressing that mastery of the Chinese language is essential for understanding the classical texts featured in the artwork.

A section of Chao Daishuang's calligraphy on display at the exhibition in Beijing, China, June 6, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Chao said appreciating calligraphy requires an understanding of its cultural roots. He urged young cultural workers to develop a solid literary grounding, saying, "Only those deeply versed in classics can create truly meaningful calligraphy." He emphasized that authentic cultural exchanges must be built on genuine traditional foundations.

On the topic of cultural diplomacy, Chao said its effects are often gradual. "A lecture or an overseas exchange may not yield immediate results," he said. "But such efforts lay foundations for the future — persistent engagement will naturally bear fruit over time."