| With his original views on calligraphy learning and remarkable achievements in practice, Zhao Mengfu (1254-1322) has been regarded as one of the most influential masters in Chinese calligraphy history. He has lots of everlasting calligraphic masterpieces, among which his Xingshu (cursive handwriting) scripts are considered to be his magnum opus. This thesis has conducted an analysis of the forming reasons of his Xingshu style, focusing on a greater elaboration on his Xingshu styles respectively in the early, mid and late days of his life. Based on such analysis and elaboration and taking the author’s own experience of copying and creating calligraphic works, this thesis then has summarized the enlightenment of Zhao Mengfu’s views and practice for the Chinese calligraphy learners nowadays, which has been discussed from the following two aspects:Firstly, its enlightenment on ideas and methods on learning calligraphy. The author of this thesis holds that a calligraphy learner should take the best calligraphy masters as his/her models to follow, and be rooted in the calligraphy traditions by copying the classic masterpieces handed down from the ancient times. In his/ her process of learning and digesting calligraphy knowledge, a calligraphy learner should sort out and make best use of the beneficial lessons drawn from the ancient calligraphy masters, but being not confine himself/herself to what he/she has learned. A calligraphy learner should also have a hardworking attitude toward calligraphy learning, and pursue the goal of perfection in arts with patience and persistence. Secondly, its enlightenment on calligraphy practice. The author of this thesis holds that a calligraphy learner should insist on calligraphy practice on basic writing techniques through appreciation of classic calligraphic masterpieces, seek for a better understanding of the ancient great masters’calligraphic styles and build up his/her own unique calligraphic style through consistent practice. |
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