The Art of Calligraphy in Daily Life: Spring Scrolls, Plaques, and Screens

Chinese calligraphy isn’t just museum art—it’s a living part of everyday culture. Imagine walking into a Chinese home during Chinese New Year and seeing red paper scrolls (called chunlian, or spring couplets) pasted on doors, featuring bold, flowing characters wishing luck and prosperity. These are like personalized New Year’s banners, but written in elegant brushstrokes instead of printed letters.

Similarly, calligraphy adorns plaques (bian) in tea houses, temples, or even modern cafes. A plaque with the restaurant's name might hang above its entrance, its artistic strokes silently conveying cultural values—much like how a Western café might display a quote in fancy cursive.

Screens (pingfeng) with calligraphic paintings are another example. Think of them as decorative room dividers, blending poetry and art. In international terms, they’re like framed motivational posters, but with centuries-old brush techniques and deeper philosophical meanings.

From festive decorations to interior design, calligraphy bridges tradition and daily life. Next time you see Chinese characters, remember—they’re not just writing, but wearable, hangable, and livable art.