Title: Square Word Calligraphy, Quotations of Chairman Mao

Date: 2001

Format: Hanging Scroll

Material: Ink on Paper

Museum: Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C.
Found: http://www.mutualart.com/Artwork/SQUARE-WORD-CALLIGRAPHY--CHAIRMAN-MAO-S-/

I chose Xu Bing's Square Word Calligraphy because it explores the relationships between Chinese and English written languages. It transforms the traditional method of Chinese calligraphy into a contemporary context. By creating character-like English words, Xu allows those who cannot read Chinese to experience this important facet of Chinese culture.