Calligraphy & Brush Painting

China Institute will continue to provide online Chinese Brush Painting via Zoom. The instructor Ms. Sungsook Setton will employ a flexible and creative approach to teach her virtual Brush Painting class, integrating group instruction and individual tutoring.

This class provides training in the fundamentals of traditional brush painting, its principles, techniques, subject matters and styles. Themes covered include landscapes, birds-and-flowers, insects, fish, and others. Students are trained to master brushstrokes and taught the skills of capturing the essence of forms.

• Instruction and discussion.
• Communication with instructor for commentary on individual practice.
• The class will use a combination of communication tools, including Zoom, linked to a camera, recorded videos and email correspondence for individual guidance, etc.
• The instructor will provide the zoom meeting information, as well as a brief introduction on how to use Zoom.

To watch a demo of the class, click here.

As a continuation of your Seal Script journey, this course builds on the foundational techniques and principles introduced in Seal Script I. You will further develop your understanding and create your own artwork, applying what you’ve learned in more advanced and expressive ways.

Seal Script (篆书, Zhuànshū) is one of the earliest forms of Chinese calligraphy, originating during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE) and later standardized in the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE) under the influence of Li Si (c. 280 BCE – 208 BCE). Known for its elegant curves, rounded and elongated strokes, and symmetrical structure, Seal Script emphasizes balance and harmony. The style continued to flourish into the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912 CE), when many calligraphers contributed their unique interpretations, enriching its beauty and expanding its expressive possibilities.

In this 5-week course, we will continue to explore the techniques of the Seal Script, going beyond the basics to uncover new creative approaches. The course will be centered around a model couplet artwork by Wang Fu’an (see reference below), which will serve as a guide to deepen your practice and understanding of this refined style.

By the end of the course, you will complete and present your own original Chinese calligraphy couplet artwork as in the picture.

Homework submission is required, as it allows the instructor to track your progress and provide personalized feedback in a timely manner.

This course is recommended for students who have prior experience with Seal Script or with other styles of Chinese calligraphy.

Calligraphy is the art of writing Chinese characters. Students are taught how to use the brush and given an artistic and etymological introduction to China’s system of writing, which is an important key to understanding and appreciating Chinese art, history, and culture. Students learn and practice basic brush strokes and characters in a meditative, relaxed atmosphere. Classes often begin with a demonstration, followed by time for individual attention, allowing students to learn at their own pace. Knowledge of Chinese or brush technique is not necessary. Materials are supplied for the first class only.