Basic of Chinese calligraphy
Course Description
Chinese calligraphy is a unique artistic expression of Chinese culture. Calligraphy art in different periods reflects the social culture and people's aesthetic orientations of those specific eras. This course selects Zhi Yong's QianZiWen (Thousand-Character Classic in Regular and Cursive Scripts),a representative work in the history of Chinese calligraphy,as the model textbook. It combines theoretical knowledge with practice by providing step-by-step demonstrations of stroke decomposition, supplemented by the brief history of calligraphy and the connection between calligraphy, culture, and art.
This free, self-paced course is a professional basic course for first-year undergraduate students majoring in Fine Arts, Art Design, and Theatre, Film & Television Studies at the China Academy of Art. Aimed at guiding freshmen to start from the core aesthetic values of traditional Chinese culture, the course cultivates students' artistic outlook through practical exercises in calligraphy techniques.
The course consists of 14 episodes, covering contents such as course overview, Zhi Yong and his QianZiWen, the relationship between calligraphy, Chinese painting, and Chinese art, characteristics of Regular Script, detailed explanations and demonstrations of basic stroke writing in Regular Script, and left-handed writing in Regular Script with demonstrations.
Course Provider
Provider: China Academy of Art, delivered through XuetangX.
Platform: XuetangX online learning platform – fully online, self‑paced.
Instructors: Professor Wang Yi, Professor Chen Chaoli, Professor Yu Mo, and 3 other instructors from the China Academy of Art.
Reference Textbook: "Traditional Chinese Calligraphy and Painting Basics – Calligraphy Basics" (ISBN 9787550326828, 1st Edition, November 2021, China Academy of Art Press).
Course Syllabus (14 Episodes)
Learning Objectives
- Understand the core aesthetic values of traditional Chinese culture through calligraphy.
- Learn the basic techniques of Regular Script through practical exercises.
- Master stroke decomposition and writing techniques using Zhi Yong's QianZiWen as a model.
- Gain knowledge of the brief history of calligraphy and its connection to culture and art.
- Develop an artistic outlook and cultivate artistic skills through calligraphy practice.
- Appreciate the unique artistic expression of Chinese calligraphy.
Course Prerequisites
Technical: None. No prior knowledge is required.
Language: The course is available in English. The platform interface can be switched to English.
Who should take this: Art-major college students, art enthusiasts of all age groups, and anyone interested in Chinese calligraphy and traditional culture.
User Reviews
"This course is a true gem. The step-by-step demonstrations of stroke writing are incredibly clear and helpful. I've always wanted to learn Chinese calligraphy, and this course gave me the perfect start. The selection of Zhi Yong's QianZiWen is excellent. Highly recommended!"
"As an art student, this course deepened my understanding of Chinese calligraphy and its connection to painting. The instructors are knowledgeable and the content is well-structured. The course is suitable for both beginners and those with some experience."
"I've taken several calligraphy courses, but this one stands out. The focus on Zhi Yong's Thousand-Character Classic is unique and provides a solid foundation. The course is well-paced and the demonstrations are easy to follow. The certificate from China Academy of Art is a wonderful addition to my portfolio."
Based on 69+ ratings on XuetangX.
💡 Final Thoughts
This course offers a unique opportunity to learn Chinese calligraphy from one of China's most prestigious art institutions. The focus on Zhi Yong's Thousand-Character Classic provides a solid foundation in both Regular and Cursive Scripts. Whether you're an art student, a hobbyist, or simply curious about Chinese culture, this course will enrich your understanding and skills. The certificate from China Academy of Art is a valuable credential. Don't miss this chance to explore the beauty of Chinese calligraphy.
Basic of Chinese calligraphy – FAQ
Is this course really free?
Yes, completely free. XuetangX offers this course at no cost. You just need to create a free account on the platform.
Do I need any prior experience?
None at all. This course is designed for beginners. No prior knowledge is required.
How long does the course take?
The course is self‑paced and contains 14 episodes. You can complete it at your own pace within the enrollment period (e.g., July 2026 to January 2027).
Will I receive a certificate or badge?
Yes, upon passing the final exam, you'll receive a certificate of completion from China Academy of Art and XuetangX. You can share it on LinkedIn and other platforms.
Is the course in English or Chinese?
The course is available in English. The XuetangX platform interface can be switched to English.
What topics are covered?
The course covers course overview, Zhi Yong and his QianZiWen, the relationship between calligraphy, Chinese painting, and Chinese art, characteristics of Regular Script, detailed explanations and demonstrations of basic stroke writing in Regular Script, and left-handed writing in Regular Script with demonstrations.