Through words or images, artist has no problems expressing self

Tu Xiangdong, a calligrapher and photographer, says there is plenty to be passionate about in both occupations.

"In addition to calligraphy, Tu is devoted to poems and photography. These art forms and traditional culture nourish him and turn him into a talent," said Liu Yi, former vice-president of the China Calligraphers Association.

Born in 1963, Tu's first interest was calligraphy. He started to learn the art form when he was a child.

He began by copying the handwriting of well-known calligraphers from ancient times, such as Mi Fu (1051-1107), one of the four greatest calligraphers in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127).

Deeply influenced by Mi, Tu's work has a dashing and refined natural atmosphere.

Now, Tu is a mature calligrapher who has won renown and respect in his field.

"Looking at Tu's handwriting, you get a calm and elegant feeling---it is natural and unsophisticated. It is tough yet gentle," said Quan Xijun, an advisor to the China Calligraphers Association.

Tu has never limited himself to a single style. He is well versed in regular script, running script as well as clerical script.

"Tu's calligraphy has always been a combination of various kinds of handwriting, and he later developed his own style," Quan said.

Calligraphers in the association claim that there is an energy flowing through Tu's works that gives people a sense of ancient aesthetics.