Day: May 10, 2023

Chinese Calligraphy and Painting: A Rich Cultural Legacy

 

China's culture is diverse of which calligraphy and Painting play a key role

Chinese culture is famous for its rich artistic heritage. And, Chinese Calligraphy and Painting stand out as two of China’s most significant art forms. These art forms have a profound cultural and historical significance that has transcended time. Interestingly, they remain an essential part of China’s cultural legacy.

In this article, we explore the significance of Chinese Calligraphy and Painting. Then, we take a look into their history, evolution, and how they have contributed to Chinese culture.

The History of Chinese Calligraphy

A typical Chinese Calligraphy shown in the picture

Chinese Calligraphy is one of the oldest and most revered art forms in China. History traces its roots to over 4,000 years ago, during the Shang Dynasty. Chinese Calligraphy involves using a brush and ink to write Chinese characters on paper or silk. The art form is a unique combination of writing and drawing. With the brush strokes being just as important as the characters themselves.

Over the centuries, Chinese Calligraphy has evolved into several styles. These include Seal Script, Clerical Script, Regular Script, Running Script, and Cursive Script. Each style has its unique characteristics. And each requires years of practice to master. Many Chinese Calligraphers specialize in a specific style. Alternatively, others experiment by combining different styles to create new forms of calligraphy.

The Significance of Chinese Calligraphy

Chinese Calligraphy is not just a form of writing. Instead, it is an art form that has deep cultural and historical significance. People view calligraphy as a reflection of the calligrapher’s character. Apparently, the brush strokes reveal the mood, temperament, and personality of the calligrapher. In Chinese culture, calligraphy is one of the highest forms of art. Its significance stretches beyond its aesthetic value.

Calligraphy is also a form of meditation. Hence, many Chinese Calligraphers describe it as a way to find inner peace and tranquility. Writing Chinese characters requires patience, discipline, and concentration. As a result, many calligraphers see it as a form of spiritual practice.

Chinese Calligraphy is an intangible Cultural Heritage by Humanity-UNESCO

Chinese Painting: A Unique Art Form

Chinese Calligraphy and Painting play an integral part in the Chinese history and culture. The picture shows typical Chinese Painting.

Chinese Painting is another art form that has a rich history and cultural significance. It involves using brushes, ink, and colored pigments to create a visual representation of the world. You can trace it back to the Han Dynasty and over the centuries. It has evolved into several distinct styles, including Traditional Chinese Painting, Ink and Wash Painting, and Gongbi Painting.

The Significance of Chinese Painting

Chinese Painting is a unique art form that has contributed significantly to Chinese culture. Like Calligraphy, people regard Chinese Painting as a reflection of the artist’s character. The belief is that the brush strokes reveal the artist’s mood, temperament, and personality. In Chinese culture, Painting is one of the highest forms of art, with its significance stretching beyond its aesthetic value.

It is also a way of capturing the essence of the world and expressing it in a way that transcends language and cultural barriers. Because it often depicts landscapes, animals, and people. However, people do so in a way that captures the spirit of the subject rather than its physical form. As such, the purpose of Chinese Painting is to make it easier to understand the world around us on a deeper level.

Also read:

Chinese Language and Culture

Best Ways Foreign Students Can Celebrate Chinese New Year

Why Study in China: 9 Reasons Why You Should

Mid-Autumn Festival: A Celebration of Tradition and Unity

The Evolution

Over the centuries, Chinese Calligraphy and Painting have evolved in response to changes in Chinese society and culture. During the Tang Dynasty, for example, calligraphy and painting flourished. Many artists experimented with new styles and techniques. The Song Dynasty saw the development of more refined and delicate styles. This includes the Gongbi style of Painting.

The Ming and Qing Dynasties saw the emergence of new styles of calligraphy and painting. During these eras, artists drew inspiration from traditional Chinese literature and philosophy. Calligraphy and Painting became more expressive and personal. Thus, artists used their art to express their own unique perspectives on life and the world around them.

In modern times, Chinese Calligraphy and Painting continue to evolve and adapt to contemporary society. While many artists continue to practice traditional techniques and styles, others are pushing the boundaries of what is possible. As a result, they experiment with new materials and techniques to create innovative and cutting-edge works of art.

The Cultural Significance

Chinese Calligraphy and Painting are more than just art forms; therefore, they are an essential part of Chinese culture and heritage. They have played a vital role in shaping Chinese identity. Also, they have influenced other areas of Chinese culture, including literature, music, and philosophy.

Additionally, calligraphy and painting have played an important role in Chinese diplomacy. This is because many Chinese leaders use calligraphy and painting as a way to build relationships and foster goodwill between China and other countries. In recent years, Chinese Calligraphy and Painting have become increasingly popular around the world. Why? Because of exhibitions and workshops that take place in many countries around the globe.

Chinese Calligraphy and Painting in Contemporary Society

A perfect start of Chinese calligraphy

In modern times, Chinese Calligraphy and Painting continue to play a significant role in Chinese society. They are taught in schools, colleges, and universities across China. Many people practice them as a hobby or as a way to relieve stress and find inner peace.

Chinese Calligraphy and Painting are also increasingly being used in contemporary art and design.

Try Chinese Calligraphy or Painting whenever you get the chance. It can really be fun.

 

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Dealing with Peer Pressure or Influence in the University

The university community is full of peer pressure or influence which students battle with. The picture shows a student standing whilst others are writing.

Peer pressure or influence is a common occurrence in university life. Naturally, those around you influence your life in one way or the other. You were not born with your own character or lifestyle. The society or community around you contributes to who you are. The question many ask is, how influential are those people in your life? It could be positive or negative. The university community is full of people from different walks of life. And learning one thing or the other from your peers is part of the process. As such, peer pressure or influence is part of every student’s journey. Many students often find themselves in situations where they are pressured to conform to the expectations of their peers. It can be in terms of social behavior, academic performance, or lifestyle choices. Whereas peer influence can be positive, it can also have negative consequences.

This article provides tips and strategies on how to deal with negative peer pressure or influence in the university.

Understand the Nature of Peer Pressure or Influence

Peer pressure or influence is a phenomenon that occurs when the opinions, behaviors, or attitudes of your peers influence you. As mentioned earlier, it can be positive or negative. Positive peer influence can help you improve your academic performance, develop social skills, and build self-confidence. Negative peer influence, on the other hand, can lead to unhealthy behaviors i.e. drug use, drinking, or reckless behavior.

If you understand the nature of the influence, you’ll make informed decisions and avoid negative consequences.

Here are a few tips to help you out:

Set Clear Boundaries

The picture shows that, in order to overcome social media pressure or influence, you need to sometimes stand alone

One of the most effective ways to deal with peer pressure or influence is to set clear boundaries. This involves establishing your own values, beliefs, and goals. Let your friends know these principles about you. For example, if you do not drink alcohol or use drugs, make your stand clear to your peers. Similarly, if you are busy with academic work, don’t give in when they convince you to engage in frivolous stuff.

Setting clear boundaries can help you focus. If you focus, you can easily achieve your goals. And some cases you need to be odd to be able to achieve these goals.

Surround Yourself With Like-Minded Peers

Th picture shows how important like-minded peers are in helping you achieve your goals.

Another effective strategy for dealing with peer pressure or influence is to find like-minded peers. Just look for friends who share your values, beliefs, and goals. Only like-minded peers can create a supportive environment you need to excel. Get people who will support you.

Be Assertive

Assertiveness is an important skill for dealing with peer pressure or influence. It involves expressing your opinions and standing up for your beliefs in a respectful and confident manner. When you face peer pressure, assertiveness can help you say no. It also helps you maintain your boundaries without damaging your relationships with your peers.

How do you become assertive? Well, it involves being clear and direct in your communication. Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. Stay calm and composed in the face of pressure. For example, instead of saying “You’re pressuring me to drink alcohol,” you could say “I don’t feel comfortable drinking alcohol, so I’m going to pass.” By using “I” statements, you are taking ownership of your feelings and decisions. Invariably, this makes it easier for your peers to understand and respect your boundaries.

Recommended articles:

 10 Things That Can Make Your College Life Less Stressful

7 Effective Ways To Deal With Social Media Pressure as a Student

Say No To Exam Anxiety: Detailed Guide

Essay Writing Tips for Students 

Know What You Want

Many students only follow the crowd. Such students are not able to spearhead their own agenda. Basically, they live the life of others. On the contrary, if you know what you want, you have a purpose. As such, your peers cannot destruct your plans.

Check what peer pressure can do to the brains here

Be Mindful of Social Media

The era in which we are is dicey on so many grounds. Social media somehow shapes us in a certain way. It is a powerful tool for connecting with others, but it can also be a source of negative peer influence. People often fill social media platforms with unrealistic images, lifestyles, and messages. These make many people feel inadequate or pressured to conform to certain standards.

It is important to be mindful of social media use and to recognize when it is having a negative impact on your well-being. This may involve limiting your social media use, unfollowing accounts that make you feel bad about yourself, or using social media in a positive and constructive way.

Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health

It is an area many people pay less attention to. Taking care of your physical and mental health is important in dealing with peer pressure or influence. When you are physically and mentally healthy, you are better equipped to handle stress, make good decisions, and resist negative peer influence.

The university is a community of diverse cultures and personalities. Remember to be yourself and always seek to be a better version of yourself. Nothing comes easy, so don’t be misled to chase an easier route that can jeopardise your future.

 

Please leave your comments below.

 

 

10 Things That Can Make Your College Life Less Stressful

 

College life can be fun if you do it right, as shown in the picture below.

College life is a time of exciting opportunities and new experiences. However, it can also be a stressful time, especially for students who struggle to balance academic work, social life, and personal responsibilities. In this article, we will discuss 10 things that can make your college life less stressful, helping you make the most of this exciting period of your life.

  1. Time Management

The clock shows how essential time management is in making college life enjoyable

Effective time management is the key to reducing stress in college life. It involves planning your study time, social activities, and personal responsibilities in advance so that you can complete everything on time. You can use a planner or a scheduling app to organize your daily activities and set deadlines for assignments, exams, and other tasks.

For instance, if you have a paper due in two weeks, break it down into smaller tasks, such as researching, outlining, writing, and editing. Allocate specific time slots for each task, and stick to them. This will not only help you complete your work on time but also reduce your stress level.

  1. Set Realistic Goals

Setting unrealistic goals can create unnecessary stress and anxiety. It is important to set realistic goals that are achievable within a specific time frame. For instance, if you have a midterm exam in two weeks, set a goal of studying for two hours every day instead of trying to cram everything in the night before the exam.

  1. Stay Organized

Staying organized can make college life less stressful. You can start by keeping your study area clean and tidy, as a cluttered space can affect your productivity and concentration. You can also organize your notes, textbooks, and other study materials in a way that makes it easy to access them when needed.

Moreover, you can keep track of your assignments, deadlines, and grades by using a digital or physical folder. This will help you stay on top of your coursework and avoid last-minute stress.

  1. Take Breaks

Taking breaks is essential for reducing stress in college life. When you study for long hours without taking a break, you may become exhausted and lose focus. You can take short breaks of 5-10 minutes every hour or two to recharge your batteries.

You can use your breaks to stretch, walk around, or do something that you enjoy, such as listening to music or watching a funny video. This will help you relax and come back to your work with renewed energy.

Recommended articles:

Beat Procrastination: The Ultimate Guide for Students 

7 Effective Ways to Deal with Social Media Pressure as a Student

 Academic Burnout: Causes and Solutions for Students 

Adjusting to Campus Life: Common Challenges First-Year University Students Face

Excelling Academically: 10 Essential Tips for University Students 

  1. Exercise

Regular exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety in college life. It releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters and improves sleep quality, which is essential for academic performance. You can join a gym, take a yoga class, or go for a jog in the park.

Moreover, you can integrate exercise into your daily routine by walking or cycling to class, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or doing some stretching exercises in your room.

  1. Sleep

This image shows that good rest is good for a stress free college life

Sleep is crucial for reducing stress and improving academic performance in college life. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration. You should aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep every night, and establish a regular sleep schedule that allows you to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day.

To improve your sleep quality, you can create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading a book, taking a warm shower, or listening to calming music. You should also avoid using electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphones, before bedtime, as the blue light can interfere with your sleep.

  1. Seek Support

Seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselors can help reduce stress and anxiety in college life. Talking about your worries and concerns can help you gain perspective and find solutions to your problems.

  1. Manage Finances

Managing your finances can be a significant source of stress in college life. You can reduce this stress by creating a budget, tracking your expenses, and avoiding unnecessary spending. You can also look for part-time jobs or internships that can help you earn some extra money and gain valuable experience.

Moreover, you can apply for scholarships, grants, or financial aid to reduce your student debt and ease your financial burden. You can also use student discounts and coupons to save money on textbooks, food, and other expenses.

Check Haverd University Financial Management Tips here:

  1. Build Relationships

College is not for studies, networking is another gain you can make whilst in college

Building positive relationships can help reduce stress and improve your mental health in college life. You can join clubs, organizations, or sports teams that match your interests and values. This will help you meet like-minded people and develop friendships that can last a lifetime.

Moreover, you can participate in social events, such as parties, movie nights, or game nights, that can help you relax and have fun with your peers. You can also volunteer for community service or charitable causes that can help you contribute to society and feel good about yourself.

  1. Practice Self-Care

Practice self-care to help reduce stress and promote your well-being in college. You can engage in activities that you enjoy, such as reading, writing, painting, or playing music. You can also spend time in nature, such as hiking, camping, or gardening, which can help you connect with your inner self and the environment.

Moreover, you can practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga which can help you reduce stress and improve your mental health. You can also seek therapy or counseling that can help you address underlying issues and develop coping strategies.

Don’t screw your college life, instead, make it fun and memorable.

Please leave your comments below.