To battle this dark hopelessness, I started Chinese calligraphy and taichi lessons to calm down and maintain some social contact.

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Chinese calligraphy has always been more than simply a tool for communication, incorporating as it does the element of artistry for which the practice is still valued in an age of ballpoint pens and computers.

UNESCO: Culture

First, "A Discerning Eye: The Aoyama San'u Collection, " works of ancient Chinese painting and calligraphy from Aoyama's private holdings.

WSJ: The Vision and Calligraphy of Aoyama San'u | Tokyo National Museum | Transformational Characters | By Michael Judge

In its distinctive Chinese form, calligraphy offers an important channel for the appreciation of traditional culture and for arts education.

UNESCO: Culture

The Hong Kong auction, which will feature ink paintings, calligraphy and classical Chinese furniture, marks the first time a Chinese auction house will compete with Sotheby's and Christie's on their home turf.

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The wide diversity of patterns reflects a variety of influences, ranging from Arabic calligraphy, European bouquets and Chinese phoenixes to Japanese cherry blossoms and Indian or Persian peacocks.

UNESCO: Culture

After World War II, Chinese archaeological artifacts scrolls, pottery, bronze castings adorned with calligraphy were uncovered in abundance, and their freedom of form inspired Aoyama to let loose even further.

WSJ: The Vision and Calligraphy of Aoyama San'u | Tokyo National Museum | Transformational Characters | By Michael Judge