What are the characteristics of calligraphy reflected in the ideological trend of striving for "individual freedom" initiated by Li Zhi and others in the literary and art circles?
The ideological trend of striving for "individual freedom" advocated by Li Zhi and others in the literary and art circles is reflected in calligraphy, which is a traditional "neutral" aesthetic based on the calligraphy of the "two kings" and is being challenged by the non-neutral aesthetic that publicizes individuality. Under the influence of this thought, a large number of outstanding calligraphers emerged in just 70 years in the late Ming Dynasty, such as Xu Wei, Xing Dong, Dong Qichang, Mi, Huang Daozhou and Ni. They are unconventional and have their own characteristics. Although their calligraphy styles are quite different, the diversified expressions and decadent and heartless emotions in their works are a true portrayal of the complex ambivalence of ordinary literati who flaunt the trend of personality liberation and are in the background of the imminent collapse of the dynasty.