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Officials unveil the plaque for a new research institute dedicated to Chinese calligraphy studies at Shaoxing University. [Photo/Tide News]

A new institute dedicated to the study and promotion of Chinese calligraphy was inaugurated at Shaoxing University in Shaoxing on April 1.

The Lanting Chinese Calligraphy Research Institute draws its name and inspiration from the Orchid Pavilion (Lanting).

In 353, the revered calligrapher Wang Xizhi (303-361) invited 41 friends to Lanting, where he created the Lanting Xu (Preface to the Poems Composed at the Orchid Pavilion), an apex in Chinese calligraphy. Since then, Lanting has been revered by scholars and artists.

Shaoxing, often called the "hometown of calligraphy", has long been a center of traditional arts and culture. The new institute aims to serve as a national platform for research, training, exhibitions, and international exchange in calligraphy.

The 41st Lanting Calligraphy Festival opened in the historic Lanting scenic area of Shaoxing on April 1.

Christine Gertrud Huerlimann, a Swiss calligraphy enthusiast, described Lanting as a sacred place for Chinese calligraphy. She has practiced the art for eight years and came to China last year to learn Chinese and enhance her skills.

Shaoxing University has established Lanting Academy of Calligraphy programs in schools and institutions across 11 countries and regions.

The institute is expected to host academic forums, launch educational initiatives, and preserve rare manuscripts.