Chinese calligraphy is also known as "tzi hua" (
The conventions of calligraphic styles and the traditional didactic emphasis do not apply to Tong's works, where the Chinese characters seem to dance -- almost as if they were performers on a stage. In 1975, choreographer Lin Huai-min (
PHOTO COURTESY OF CKS CULTURAL CENTER
Tong has also written the titles for many of the group's works, which have appeared in Cloud Gate's promotional material. More recently, Tong wrote the name for City Stages (
PHOTO COURTESY OF CKS CULTURAL CENTER
Apart from these projects, the calligrapher has held some 50 exhibitions since 1959.
In Tze You Tze Tzai: A dialogue Between Calligraphy and Space (
Tong created the 10 exhibits specifically for these performance venues. Their sculptural quality, both solemn and lithe, make for an interesting interaction with the grand interiors.
The words Tong wrote range from simple phrases like Hsiao Ke(
Tong's selection of short phrases give her much greater freedom of composition, often influenced by Western painting and an emphasis on innovative expression.
Architect Ray Chen (陳瑞憲), who designed the Eslite book store in Taichung and the Shi-Chian University Education Building, also plays an important role in creating the exhibition, having designed panels for Tong to write and arranged the finished work in the venues.
There is a Zen-like quality to some of Tong's interpretations of various classical phrases. This is particularly evident in the work The Largest Object Has Nothing Beyond It (
A dialogue Between Calligraphy and Space is on show at the National Theater and National Concert Hall through April 6.
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