Chinese Calligraphy Artist Zhang Guo Dong
Pictures and videos of Chinese artist Zhang Guo Dong writing calligraphy, including his famous one-stroke dragon symbol. Master Zhang is from He Bei province, near Beijing, China.
A Few Words About this Calligraphy Artist
It is said that to become a good calligrapher requires a lifetime of practice, and at 76 years of age Master Zhang has been writing diligently for over 60 years. This artists story cannot be told in the space we have here, but it is one of perseverance and dedication.
Unsure of his birthday Mr. Zhang lost his mother at an early age and his art has been one of the only constants in his life. At times unable to afford ink, paper or brushes, especially during the infamous cultural revolution, Master Zhang often used water to write on newspaper or the floor of his home. Needless to say this often angered his wife as it was quite messy to say the least.
Master Zhang and other dedicated artists have found innovative ways to practice their art, at times even risking their life to do so. This lifetime of devotion to writing calligraphy is evident in the beautiful artworks created by this artist.
Iris Turner Meeting Chinese Calligraphy Artist Zhang Guo Dong
Master Zhang Guo Dong and Iris Turner meeting at his home in He Bei province. 
Iris Turner and Master Zhang - Iris is a student of Master Zhang, and considers him to be one of the finest calligraphers in China. 
One of the calligraphy art works that won him an award for his skill and originality as an artist. Pictures of Master Zhang Writing Calligraphy 
Before he begins writing Master Zhang inspects the paper he will use, and explains to Iris what type of paper is best suited for the artworks he will create today. 
A lot of thought goes into creating a masterpiece, requiring decades of practice and a thorough understanding of the process. 
Master Zhang is explaining to Iris how he will layout this calligraphy painting, and the things she should consider before she begins writing herself. 
Balance is one of the most important concepts in writing Chinese calligraphy, and here he is stressing this point. 
Iris is asking questions about the layout. She is a very good student and always asks a lot of questions so she can gain a better understanding of her art. 
Almost ready to begin, the layout confirmed and Iris understands how he will write the calligraphy to create a beautiful, balanced fine artwork. 
Here you can see Master Zhang has already completed several characters of the painting they have been discussing. 
A title is an important part of many calligraphy paintings, and can be essential in obtaining balance. A title will often consist of the date, an artists name, or some words dear to the artist. 
The Chinese calligraphy painting has almost been completed, the title has been written and Master Zhang explains how he will seal the painting, which is the final step in the process. 
Place a seal on an artwork is how Chinese artists "sign" their names. You will often see more than one seal on a painting, one is always the artists name, while others may be a favorite idiom, a tribute to their teacher or some words near and dear to their heart. 
A lot of discussion takes place before and after every painting. Here Iris is contemplating what she has learned. 
Master Zhang showing us one of his Chinese calligraphy paintings. 
The famous one-stroke dragon Chinese calligraphy painting. Made into a wall scroll or framed, this is one of the finest examples of Chinese calligraphy you will ever see. 
Writing additional calligraphy on the one-stroke dragon symbol painting. 
Almost finished with the title. 
The last step again, is to "sign" a painting by placing one or more seals on it. 
Each of his Chinese calligraphy art works is unique, and you will notice the "tail" of the dragon is on the bottom in this painting. 
Beginning to write additional calligraphy on the painting. 
Now to write the title. 
Last but certainly not least Master Zhang is placing the seals on the second one-stroke dragon calligraphy painting. 
Master Zhang sealing a "Big Fu" calligraphy painting. The meaning of big Fu is a blessing for a lot of good fortune. 
Buddha Heart - Also known as the awakened heart of compassion. 
Writing a title for the Buddha heart calligraphy painting. 
Another of my personal favorites, the one stroke-tiger. 
Master Zhang discussing how to write the additional calligraphy on the one-stroke tiger calligraphy painting. 
Balance is a key element in Chinese calligraphy, and few artists know this better than Master Zhang. 
Iris asking more questions.
Additional pictures of Master Zhang Guo Dong and Iris discussing some of the calligraphy paintings depicted in the pictures above. 
Videos of Master Zhang Writing Calligraphy
Other Chinese Calligraphy Artists
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