Ming Dynasty and Calligraphers

Painting of Wang Xizhi by a later Yuan Dynasty artist.

Last night, I attended the St. Louis Art Museum member's event featuring a large collection of artifacts from the Ming Dynasty. The show features the court arts of China -- it was amazing! My favorite piece of the exhibit showcased the work of Chinese Calligrapher Wang Xizhi -- a small porcelain bowl in perfect rare condition. It is said that he loved to watch swans and that they inspired his calligraphy strokes! Many of the artists like Wang Xizhi were never allowed to leave the Imperial City. Can you imagine? As artists, I wonder if they had to pay taxes like I do on my calligraphy business?! I think paying taxes is better when it includes freedom, don't you? ; )

Nature is a huge part of my calligraphic inspiration too. For example, I love the curls of grapevines -- the interesting twists and turns have inspired my calligraphy swirls. Even architecture has inspired me -- Corinthian and Doric columns have influenced my monograms. Fashion and clothing provide me with ideas -- the patterns in toile fabric, the ruffles of a clown's collar, the intricate pattern work of lace. Inspiration can be found everywhere.

Last night as we left the art museum, the sky was incredible; the air smelled fresh of Spring. The lawn of Art Hill was green again -- hard to believe just a few months ago folks were snow sledding down it! As the sun set and the light filtered through the high altitude clouds, the color was a breathtaking shade of orange red. I thought to myself, God rewards us continually in so many miraculous ways. We must be sure to enjoy, find inspiration and give thanks!