In an era dominated by digital devices, the act of handwriting has become increasingly rare. However, research reveals that handwriting engages the brain more extensively than typing, fostering intricate motor skills and enhanced visual processing. This practice not only influences our thinking and creativity but also offers a unique way to express ourselves and generate new ideas. One of the oldest and most profound forms of handwriting is Chinese calligraphy, a practice that has transcended centuries, blending cultural, philosophical, and artistic elements. Chinese calligraphy, with its emphasis on brushstrokes and composition, values both the inked and the empty spaces on the scroll, symbolizing balance and harmony. The tools of calligraphy—a soft brush, Xuan paper, and ink—are simple, yet the art demands a clear mind, sincerity, humility, and self-restraint. As generative AI takes over more writing tasks, there is a growing concern that humans are becoming disconnected from their creative ideas. The multi-sensory experience of handwritten calligraphy fosters a deeper connection with the writer’s emotions and surroundings, promoting patient introspection and grounding the practitioner in the physical world. This practice offers lasting benefits for our often overwhelmed and restless minds. Writers like Nicholas Carr and Aden Evens highlight the ongoing rewiring of our minds due to excessive online engagement, which can diminish attention spans and deep-reading abilities, leading to superficial information processing. Artist and author James Bridle warns of the dangers of tech-dependency and over-reliance on automated systems, which can blind us to bias and bad data. Ink artist Pan Jianfeng, based in Finland, has embraced handwriting with a brush as a modern pursuit of self-cultivation and creative freedom. Through his experimental use of paper and brush, Pan invites us to reconsider the meaning of ‘content generation,’ ‘human creativity,’ and ‘communication.’ His artworks, created with traditional organic materials, engage with concepts beyond our expectations and imagination, without adding to the environmental burden of generative AI. Pan’s ‘One Breath Workshops’ advocate for mindful handwriting that brings stillness and peace in an age saturated with information. His exhibitions, such as ‘Ink Roamings,’ encourage visitors to engage in imaginative discovery and contemplation, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and each other. As Pan aptly puts it, ‘We don’t need more content—we need a better understanding of the world with all its challenges, and of each other.’
