Heart of the Brush

More about the book

This comprehensive guide explores the history, techniques, aesthetics, and philosophy of Chinese and Japanese calligraphy, offering a hands-on approach to appreciating the art. It includes step-by-step instructions for brushing 150 classic characters, making it accessible for beginners, enthusiasts, and experts alike. The book delves into the historical development of calligraphy, inviting readers to engage with the craft. Central to the text is the section titled Master Samples and Study, which features 150 characters presented across two-page spreads. Each verso page showcases the character in three distinct styles, highlighting their beauty and identifying the artist when possible. Additional information includes the character's meaning, pronunciation in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese, etymology, and the original pictograph. Stroke order is clearly illustrated at the bottom of each page, detailing the traditional sequence of brush movements. Complementing this, Kaz's unique interpretation of each character is displayed on the facing recto page, providing a personal touch to the exploration of this timeless art form.