The Silence of Ink

A Solo Exhibition of Calligraphy

Synopsis

The Silence of Ink presents a contemplative journey through calligraphy, structured as a passage that begins in silence and ultimately returns to silence. Moving through the key themes of silence, breath, playful spirit, flow, depth, and return, the exhibition invites viewers to encounter calligraphy not only as written form, but as an embodied language of presence, rhythm, and resonance.

At the heart of the exhibition lies an exploration of the unspoken: the subtle vibration of ink, the measured breath behind each gesture, and the eloquence of empty space. Here, the brushstroke is not merely a mark, but a living trace of movement, stillness, and intention. Through the interplay of form and void, gesture and restraint, each work reveals the quiet expressive power that emerges when language approaches its limits.

Rather than offering itself solely to be read, this exhibition asks to be sensed—to be received through atmosphere, cadence, and feeling. In these works, silence is not absence, but presence; not emptiness, but depth. It becomes a space of inward listening, where the unsounded may still be profoundly heard.

The Silence of Ink invites the viewer not to read, but to enter to dwell in the interval between mark and void, to hear the language of space, and to follow the quiet reverberation of ink until it returns, at last, to silence.

Where letters disappear, ink begins. In stillness, the brush breathes. Listen closely. Silence has a voice. Do not read—feel.

Kim Mi-rey (Cheongheon)

Kim Mi-rey (Cheongheon) is a calligrapher and scholar whose practice is rooted in the philosophical and aesthetic traditions of East Asia. She holds a PhD in Philosophy from Sungkyunkwan University and a Master’s degree in Confucian Studies from the university’s Graduate School of Confucian Studies. Her work is distinguished by its rare synthesis of intellectual depth, spiritual sensitivity, and refined visual expression.

Widely recognised for her contribution to contemporary calligraphy, Kim has served as an invited artist and judge for the Korean Calligraphy Association. She has also participated as an invited artist in major calligraphy exhibitions, including the Gyeonggi Calligraphy Grand Exhibition, the Korean Chusa Calligraphy Exhibition, and the Shin Saimdang–Yulgok Calligraphy Exhibition.

Her works are held in the collections of important institutions such as the Korean Calligraphy National Museum, Chuncheon National University of Education, the Korea Art Museum, and the Jeonju Gangam Calligraphy Foundation. Alongside her artistic practice, she continues to engage in research that thoughtfully bridges scholarship and creative expression.

Following her recent exhibition at the Gyeongin Museum of Fine Art in Seoul, Cheongheon’s work is also scheduled to be presented in May 2026 at Art International Zurich in Switzerland.

Artworks

風流 풍류 Cultured Elegance
46 x 32 cm
Unbroken and perpetual flow.

天鈞兩行 (천균양행)
78 x 34 cm
“Discussion on Making All Things Equal” in the Zhuangzi: “The natural balance and harmony of all things.”

龍驤虎視 (용양호시)
45 x 70 cm
Soaring like a dragon, gazing with the fierce intensity of a tiger.

行雲流水(행운유수)
35 x 135 cm
Wandering clouds and flowing water.

觀水通禪意 聞香去染心(관수통선의 문향거염심)
70 x 135 cm
By contemplating flowing water, awaken to goodness; through pure fragrance, cleanse away the dust of the mundane world.

Exhibition Details

Dates
24-26 April 2026

Venue
Visual Arts Centre
10 Penang Road, #01-02, Dhoby Ghaut Green, Singapore 238469
Parking available at Plaza Singapura

venue here

Our Visual Arts Centre Exhibition Gallery Venue Hire Calendar For 2026/2027 Is Open!

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Introduction to Manga: Begin by introducing what manga is, its history, and its influence on popular culture worldwide. Show examples of different manga styles and genres to give participants an overview.
Basic Drawing Techniques: Start with the fundamentals of drawing, such as line work, shapes, and proportions. Provide step-by-step instructions on how to draw basic manga characters, focusing on simple shapes that can be built upon.
Character Design: Move on to character design concepts, including creating unique characters, designing their personalities, and developing backstories. Encourage participants to get creative and think outside the box.
Expression and Emotion: Teach how to convey emotions and expressions through facial expressions, body language, and positioning of characters. This can be a fun and interactive exercise where participants practice drawing various emotions.
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Inking and Coloring: Introduce participants to inking techniques using pens or markers. You can also cover digital inking for those interested. Then, demonstrate basic coloring techniques using markers, colored pencils, or digital software.
Feedback and Collaboration: Provide opportunities for participants to share their work and receive feedback from their peers and instructors. Encourage collaboration by having them work together on short manga projects or collaborative drawings.
Final Showcase: End the workshop with a showcase of participants’ work. This could be in the form of an exhibition, digital gallery, or printed booklet. Celebrate everyone’s creativity and progress throughout the workshop.
Remember to create a supportive and encouraging environment where participants feel free to express themselves and explore their creativity. And don’t forget to have fun! Manga is all about imagination and passion, so let that spirit shine through in your workshop.
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Chinese Ink Painting and Calligraphy
This course on Chinese ink painting and calligraphy introduces young learners to the rich traditions of Chinese art. Through hands-on activities, students explore the basics of brush techniques, ink control, and the delicate art of Chinese script. They learn to appreciate the cultural significance of calligraphy and painting, developing skills in creating elegant strokes and expressive brushwork. The course fosters creativity, patience, and fine motor skills, while also providing insights into Chinese history and aesthetics. By the end, children gain confidence in their artistic abilities and a deeper understanding of Chinese cultural heritage.
Funk with Graffiti
Funk With Graffiti Workshop for children is an engaging and creative program aimed at introducing young artists to the vibrant world of graffiti and funk-inspired street style art. Participants learn the basics of graffiti history, techniques, and safety. Guided by professional graffiti artists, children explore the art of designing their unique tags, emphasizing creativity, expression, and individuality. The workshop includes hands-on activities, from sketching concepts to creating final designs with spray paint on provided surfaces. By the end of the session, children gain confidence in their artistic abilities and an appreciation for graffiti and funk as legitimate forms of street art. Each child completes two original artworks, which they proudly take home, showcasing their newfound skills and personal style.
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