In the course of history, Vietnamese calligraphy has evolved into a harmonious blend of old and new streams, preserving its cultural essence while embracing contemporary influences. Let’s take a closer look at the captivating world of Vietnamese calligraphy, an art form that has captivated hearts for centuries.
A Glimpse into Vietnamese Calligraphy
Known as “Thu Phap” in Vietnamese, calligraphy is the art of beautifully transcribing words onto paper. But it encompasses much more than just elegant writing; it breathes life into each character, infusing them with a profound beauty. Unlike Western calligraphy, which relies on a multitude of precise tools, Vietnamese calligraphers achieve their artistry with only a brush and black ink, evoking a philosophy that flows effortlessly onto the page.
Han-Nom Calligraphy: A Classic Calligraphic Stream
When we think of calligraphy, we often associate it with China, its birthplace. It comes as no surprise that Vietnamese calligraphy bears the influence of its Chinese counterpart, given the historical and geographical ties between the two nations. Consequently, Vietnamese calligraphy adheres to Chinese calligraphy’s standards, utilizing Han script (Chinese language) in many writings.
However, Vietnamese calligraphy sets itself apart by incorporating Nôm script, which encompasses the rich and unique Vietnamese language. This distinction between Vietnamese and Chinese calligraphy is commonly referred to as the classic calligraphic stream. While the writing style and tools remain similar to Han calligraphy, Nôm calligraphy delves into the depths of the human experience, drawing inspiration from life and natural dreams. It focuses on the virtues, rights, beauty, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people, enriching the artistry with a touch of personal inspiration.
Modern Vietnamese Script Calligraphy
Building upon the essence of Han-Nôm calligraphy, modern Vietnamese script calligraphy has flourished in the past decade. This respectful innovation closely aligns with the classical tradition, preserving the profound heritage of Vietnamese calligraphy. The process involves using brushes, Chinese ink, and writing on white or red paper. The letters are arranged within rounded or square blocks, with seals and meaningful calligraphy completing the composition. However, modern Vietnamese script calligraphy showcases a greater diversity of writing styles, adding a vibrant touch to this timeless art form.
The Advent of “Tiền Vệ” Calligraphy
Introduced to Vietnam by the avant-garde calligrapher Lê Quốc Việt in 2006, “Tiền Vệ” calligraphy represents an exciting departure from traditional streams. Việt, along with his team known as “The Zenei Gang of Five,” has worked tirelessly to promote this innovative approach. Unlike Han and Nôm calligraphy, the meaning in “Tiền Vệ” calligraphy is not dependent on intellectual understanding but is felt on a deeper level. It merges calligraphy with abstract painting, inviting viewers to interpret the art through their own emotions and perspectives.
The uniqueness of “Tiền Vệ” calligraphy lies in its departure from standardized conventions. Calligraphers can freely blend various types of scripts, including Han, Nom, and even Roman scripts, within a single work. There are no strict rules guiding the arrangement of the writing, allowing for multiple layers and sizes of scripts. Moreover, “Tiền Vệ” calligraphy can be exhibited on diverse materials such as paper, glass, wood, or even the human body. The writing tools themselves embrace creativity, with calligraphers employing techniques such as allowing a dog or a cat to create cute patterns, spraying water or ink, or imprinting bamboo leaves to introduce innovative elements.
Lê Quốc Viet’s intention in introducing this new calligraphic stream to Vietnam was to redefine and reinvigorate this esteemed art form. By breaking away from tradition, Viet injects fresh vitality into Vietnamese calligraphy, ensuring its continued relevance in the modern era.
In conclusion, Vietnamese calligraphy stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. As old and new streams intertwine, this captivating art form continues to inspire and captivate the hearts of the Vietnamese people. If you’d like to dive deeper into the enchanting world of Vietnamese calligraphy, visit Rừng Cúc Phương, where you can explore the wonders of this timeless art.
