People view calligraphy works on display at the China Cultural Center in Nigeria. [Photo provided to Chinaculture.org]

The Lanting Chinese Calligraphy Culture Salon recently hosted by the China Cultural Center in Nigeria showcased the beauty and intricacy of Chinese calligraphy while fostering cultural exchange between China and Nigeria.

Li Xuda, cultural counsellor of the Chinese embassy and director of the Chinese cultural center, said at the opening of the event: "Chinese calligraphy has a long history of development. It is not only the accumulation and essence of thousands of years of Chinese civilization, but also a treasure of world culture and art. In ancient China, there were lots of famous Chinese calligraphers. Among them, Wang Xizhi was regarded as the 'Sage of Calligraphy'. His work Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection is hailed as the pinnacle of ancient Chinese calligraphy. It not only plays an important role in art, but also is one of the symbols of Chinese culture."

James Sule, Nigeria's permanent secretary of the Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, said in his goodwill message that having Chinese calligraphy in Nigeria will be a great achievement, making it a tourist hub of the Chinese cultural center in Nigeria where scholars and lovers of Chinese character can come learn the pattern of writing.

The highlight of the event was an enlightening lecture on Chinese calligraphy delivered by Zhang Yaping, a revered teacher at the Chinese cultural center. Attendees were also treated to a calligraphy exhibition by Qin Fangfang, whose graceful brushwork showcased the timeless beauty of Chinese calligraphy.