Tamkang University in Taipei has teamed up with the Foxlink Group to develop digital pen technology to promote Chinese painting and calligraphy. The two sides signed a cooperative agreement on Monday.
A Chinese literature professor at Tamkang University, Chang Ben-hang, said that digital pens can simulate the traditional way of using a writing brush to do calligraphy and Chinese painting. He said there is tremendous potential for use in classroom instruction and Taiwan’s innovative cultural industry.
“Poetry, calligraphy and Chinese painting are the most important parts of Chinese culture," said Chang. "There must be a bridge that can connect our cultural roots with the modern cultural industry. Our digital pen can effectively connect the two, since it’s not only digital but also capable of [introducing] traditional [arts]. Digital pens can be used to engage in many innovative cultural endeavors.”
Tamkang University has been granted patents for the digital pen and mobile handwriting technology that it has developed. Chang said the two patented technologies have already been used in elementary and middle school calligraphy classes.