The most common perception in imagining the daily life of literati in ancient times, beyond their scholarly pursuits of poetry and studies, is probably their engagement in cultural activities such as playing the zither and Go as well as doing calligraphy and painting. This exhibition presents a selection of calligraphic works and paintings that span various dynastic periods, subject matter, script types, mounting formats, and artistic styles with the aim of inviting everyone to appreciate and imagine in more detail the lives of literati in the past.
　　This exhibition features several paintings of garden studios and scholar retreats. These works dealing with gardens and other aspects of the living spaces among literati often convey their sense of self-identity and a certain attachment to home. Scenes of such activities as sitting at leisure, enjoying a banquet, admiring blossoms, and gazing at the moon frequently include like-minded friends to portray an idealized literati vision of what was sought in daily life. Paintings of bamboo and rocks or potted calamus also may have captured the corner of a garden setting or décor within a scholarly abode. In rendering such still-life studies, literati artists aimed to convey the qualities of elegance, loftiness, and pure refinement that these objects embodied. These artworks thus were not only for appreciation but also served as vehicles for the self-inspiration and self-expression of the artists.
　　Calligraphic writing was the most direct and accessible medium for the literati to express their aspirations and emotions. Whether composing poetry and prose, corresponding with friends and family, transcribing classic texts, or adorning walls with couplet hanging scrolls, all such activities could demonstrate one’s temperament and talent. Rubbings taken from steles and bronze vessels also reflected their keen interest in collecting and studying ancient artifacts. Moreover, the diverse seals found on their works allow us to vividly imagine how these literati once carved and handled the seal stones, turning them over and over again in a playful, meditative manner.
　　With this in mind, we welcome you to “A Space for Brush and Ink,” where you can immerse yourself and spend time in the calligraphy, painting, and collecting activities of traditional literati. Come and step into this realm to experience the leisurely and elegant lifestyle of the past brought to life here in the present.