News--Welcome to National Chiayi University

　　“Chen Ting-Chi Calligraphy Conference” was held on the Minghsiung Campus on Dec. 10 by National Chiayi University. Scholars and experts gathered to discuss on the spirit of calligraphy, calligraphy characteristics and spirit of education of Mr. Chen Ting-Chi from different perspectives. The conference was also attended by more than eighty calligraphy hobbyists, who provided their thoughts on the art of calligraphy.

　　Calligraphy represents Chinese culture, but not everyone recognizes it as a form of high art. In recent years, writing brushes have been replaced by hard pens in terms of utility function. The importance of calligraphy in language education system has been declining with the invention and popularization of computers. Mr. Chen, born in Southern Taiwan, had a far-reaching vision for Chinese calligraphic art by committing himself to pursuing its classic and modernistic values. He reviewed the history of and historical treatises on the art, examined traditional Chinese philosophical thoughts, and delved into the artistic and metaphysical meanings of calligraphy. In addition, he shouldered the responsibility for passing down the art of calligraphy to future generations and bringing a new climate to the calligraphic world.

　　Chen Ting-Chi (1911-1994), celebrated as the “Nan Tai Shu Zong”, is known for his indifference to fame and wealth, high moral integrity, and unparalled wealth of originality. He is not only one of the most important artists of calligraphy in Taiwan, but one that deserves respect and admiration. It is no exaggeration to say that he is one of the major Taiwanese calligraphers in the past hundred years. His life is characterized by his commitment to and tranquil content in the world of calligraphic art. He drew his theoretical insights from Japan and both ancient and modern times. His education and teaching materials regarding calligraphy incorporate artistic attitudes and scientific method. His calligraphic works demonstrate vigorous strength and innovative changeability, as well as an integration of the natural “primitivism” and modern “humanism”.

　　A look into Chen’s calligraphic career sheds light on the meaning and value of modern calligraphy, and a modern calligraphic theoretical system that combines the past and present art theories. His advanced calligraphic education and teaching materials incorporate artistic attitudes and scientific method. His spirit of education and moral integrity serve as a model example for the later generations.

　　At the age of eight two, Chen held his first solo exhibition at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum and published his first calligraphy album. He has become known to Northern Taiwan since then, and his calligraphic accomplishments have won him posthumous reputation. Taiwan Arts Education Center considers him one of the most important calligraphers in Taiwan. Professor Chen Zhen-Lian, who is an expert on calligraphy, commended him as the most creative calligrapher in Taiwan he has ever seen. And there are an increasing number of elitists in the circle of calligraphy admiring his artistic genius.

　　He had been serving as faculty advisor for the Calligraphy Club of Chiayi Junior Teachers College for twenty-six years, during which he had taught innumerable students. To celebrate his centennial birthday and great success as a calligrapher, the Department of Chinese Literature organized the “Centennial Exhibition of Calligraphy in Memory of Chen Ting-Chi: Chen Ting-Chi Calligraphy Conference” at the auditorium of the Humanities Building on the Minghsiung Campus.