A Study on the Form and Spirit of Calligraphy of the Su Shi and Huang Tingjian

There have been various discussions about form and spirit in the field of philosophy, religion, art, etc. from long time ago. Form and spirit are inseparable in calligraphy aesthetics, but spirit is more important than form. Forms of calligraphy are regular rules and harmonious compositions that rely on basic strokes. Spirit can be seen as the meaning and vitality expressed through forms. Song Dynasty is a turning point in the development of Chinese ancient calligraphy aesthetics. The calligraphers of this period pursued the style of "emphasizing the meaning" which is not bound by rules but represents the new meaning by following the nature. This concept with an emphasis on emotion, subjectivity and personality is expressed in their calligraphy. “Su Shi and Huang Tingjian of Song Dynasty” are the representatives.