Zhai Xin: It's OK to copy my calligraphy

Zhai Xin

Well known Chinese calligrapher Zhai Xin is down to earth in his dress and speaks with a pure northeastern accent, but his simple appearance belies his reputation.

As vice-president of the China Painting and Calligraphy Academy, he also has a somewhat eccentric view of protecting intellectual property in painting and calligraphy.

Born into a peasant home in Heilongjiang province, the land of black soil formed many of Zhai's early memories. Starting calligraphy at the age of nine, Zhai then studied the scripts of masters like Wang Xizhi, YuYouren and Mao Zedong for 40 years.

His perennial effort helped shape his own style and comprehension of calligraphy – giving expression to the soul of his work. Zhai is famous for his cursive script that has been displayed at international exhibitions, including a show last year at the United Nations.

Yet surprisingly, he welcomes others to copy his works and even finds it acceptable if people fake his name to sell copies of it. But he has his logic. He says artists' rights to their works should be fully respected, but public demand must also be given consideration.

"We artists cannot invariably emphasize personal rights – we must also keep in mind that we are artists for the people,” Zhai said.

He regards morality as crucial to calligraphy. Without noble ideals, there can be no good calligraphy, he emphasized.

"There are many ways to realize the copyright value of artwork. It is simplistic to protect incomes solely by cracking down on counterfeit goods," he added.

"I would suggest that artists authorize their works to manufacturers. Then their paintings and calligraphy can be printed on the packages of upscale products or made into artworks of other kinds.

"In this way, artists not only promote their work, but also acquire considerable rewards. Several of my works have been authorized for printing on folding fans and tea sets."

Not surprisingly, Zhai is a strong advocate of newcomers learning calligraphy. "To inherit our culture, let's take up our writing brushes and motivate our family and friends," he said.

Source: China Daily