Water calligraphy: A living aesthetics in China’s south-western cities

Federica Mirra (Corresponding / Lead Author)

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    This article examines the popular practice of water calligraphy (dishu) across Changsha, Guiyang and Chongqing to demonstrate its aesthetic potential. Specifically, it suggests that dishu can be interpreted as a new expression of calligraphy and an exemplary case of living aesthetics. To demonstrate this, this article discusses the author’s on-site observations and conversations with water calligraphers alongside the longstanding aesthetic principles of traditional calligraphy and the experimental works by Wang Dongling (b. 1945) and Song Dong (b. 1966). Moreover, by adopting a socio-geographical and historical lens, it views water calligraphy as a living, familiar and slow practice against China’s spectacular and fast urban rhythms. Overall, this article demonstrates that water calligraphy can contribute to the discourse of living aesthetics by favouring sensual encounters within the familiar, collective and slow-paced everyday. Last, this article can contribute to shaping a new aesthetic paradigm that favours the living in a non-western context.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)51-74
    JournalJournal of Contemporary Chinese Art
    Volume11
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished (VoR) - 27 Jun 2024

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