Chinese calligraphy is a dynamic and decorative art form that may be said to be representative of traditional Chinese culture and art. Here at CityU, Harry Wang Tianyu (Computing Mathematics, Year 2) and his pals started Calligraphantasy, a student group that offers lessons of Chinese brush writing to both local and international students on campus with support from Global Services Office.

The first lessons of this programme begin by getting students to copy phrases taken from the Siku Quanshu (a collection of classical Chinese books). The tutors would then explain the meaning of the characters in detail so that all participants, including international students, would understand the content of their calligraphy.

International students are huge supporters of the programme. “It’s definitely a good chance for me to immerse in the Chinese culture and learn the history which I knew almost nothing about. I have learnt various styles of Chinese writing which come from different eras in the Chinese history,” said Olivia Lundqvist, a student from Sweden.

One ethnic Chinese student found that his writing has been improving. “I’m here to improve my handwriting and I’m making progress!”, he said. Another local student identified a well-known benefit in practising calligraphy. “Practising calligraphy trains up my patience and concentration,” he said.

Calligraphantasy brings friends of different backgrounds together, to be in the same classroom to appreciate the traditional Chinese art form. It has definitely promoted cultural integration in CityU!

Every calligraphy lesson is instructed by 5 to 6 tutors who would provide detailed instructions to participants and make sure everyone is well taken care of.