Traditional Chinese Calligraphy

Course Description

This course aims to acquaint students with the techniques of how calligraphy was taught and learned over centuries in China. Studying calligraphy was a physical as much as a mental exercise, which in its initial stages aimed more at the control of breath and posture, and movement of body, shoulder, arm and hand. The written characters were the result of achieving a certain balance.

This is a basic skills oriented course starting with the origins of Chinese characters and the art of Chinese calligraphy. Acquainting students with the characteristics of lishu, the official script, the course focuses on the basic strokes and forms of written Chinese characters. Students will learn to sit and to concentrate on the movement of the brush. The emphasis is on the techniques, methods and practice of brush writing.

Students who want to progress further will be able to take up more advanced course options later or move on to painting classes.

Topics Covered include:

  • Introduction of Chinese calligraphy
  • Development of Official Script
  • Appreciation of fully cursive Official Script

Course information

Start Date:  Monday 9 July 2012
  6.30pm - 8.00pm
Venue:  TBC
Fee:  $160 for 8 consecutive weeks 
  $144 for staff and students of the University of Sydney 
Registration: Registration open, click to enrol now

Location & Map

Education Building (A35):


View Education Building (A35) in a larger map

Pre-requisites: No prior knowledge is required.

Materials: Students can buy writing brushes, paper and ink at recommended suppliers following consultation with the teacher.

Certificate: Evaluation is provided at the end of course. Certificates are awarded to those students who have satisfactorily completed at least 75% of the course and achieved the course requirements.

Further Information:

  • The class will be conducted in English.
  • Parking is available on the campus for a flat fee of $6 after 6pm.
  • We aim to have a maximum number of 15 students in all our classes. If we exceed 15 students, we will try to split classes (depending on availability of teachers and facilities).
  • All classes need a minimum number of students to go ahead. If your chosen course does not have sufficient enrolment, it may be postponed to next term or cancelled. Should this happen, we will inform you as soon as possible.
  • For legal reasons, we reserve the right to vary courses due to unforeseen circumstances.

If you have any queries about this outline or any aspect of the Traditional Chinese Calligraphy Class, please do not hesitate to contact us on 02 9114 0760 or email