As old as the written language itself, Chinese calligraphy is a contemporary art form that is closely connected to Chinese literature and painting traditions. Venerated for three millennia, it continues to be a rich site of literary education, social communication, inter-generational cultural transmission, and cross-cultural exchange. This exhibition will present the life and work of master calligrapher Li Heyun (b.1923) of Suzhou, China.

Master Li’s life has been shaped by the tumultuous events of recent Chinese history, and through it all, his one constant refuge has been the practice of Chinese calligraphy. Over the years, he has mentored many young Chinese and made social connections around the world. In spite of his modesty, Li’s talent as a calligrapher is well known in Suzhou, where an exhibition of his work was held in September 2009; his calligraphy has won awards in juried competitions in Japan and Korea.

Li Heyun’s artistic integrity and generosity of spirit will inform this exhibition,
which will consist of calligraphy pieces by Li from private collections in the US and Canada, as well as informative displays on the basic materials and techniques of Chinese calligraphy.