A while ago, Karen asked me a simple question:

“Will you bring back the Calligraphy Show?”

I smiled and told her, “I don’t know.”

Unfortunately, Karen missed last year’s exhibition

we are not sure if she is the only one who hopes to see it return.

I believe it was one of those events that seemed to touch people in a special way. Some visitors came to admire the artwork, some to learn the art, and some stayed longer than expected, drawn in by the stories, the philosophy, and the peaceful atmosphere that surrounded the display.

We spent an enormous amount of work to make it happen. And behind every framed piece was a labor of love.

For nearly half a year, Shawn spent much of his spare time translating his calligraphy collection into English so that visitors could fully appreciate the meaning behind each work. Brandon from the East Baton Rouge Parish Library generously helped with printing, display preparation, and countless details that made the exhibition possible.

Our close friends, Yao and Yixin, devoted their time and energy to setting up the exhibition space, tutoring visitors, and explaining the history, techniques, and stories behind the art.

And then there were my parents.

Wanting visitors to experience not only the beauty of Chinese calligraphy but also the warmth of Chinese hospitality, they prepared their specialty handmade dumplings for everyone to enjoy. Many guests came for the art and left talking about both the calligraphy and the food.

Calligraphy has always been more than beautiful handwriting. It is patience. It is discipline. It is expression without speaking. Every brushstroke carries the personality, emotions, and experiences of the writer.

In today’s busy world, there is something refreshing about slowing down long enough to watch ink flow across paper. Many visitors told us that simply viewing the artwork brought them a sense of calm and peace. That may be why the exhibition remains so memorable.

Not to impress people.

Not to showcase accomplishments.

But to share a small piece of a culture we love.

Will we ever bring the Calligraphy Show back?

Honestly, I still don’t know.

It would take many helping hands and many months of preparation. But when I look back at the friendships, the smiles, the conversations, and the sense of connection the exhibition created, I cannot help but wonder whether it might be worth doing again someday.

For now, we are grateful to everyone who helped make the exhibition possible and to everyone who came to experience it with us.

And Karen—if you’re reading this—maybe there is still hope.

Let the EBRPL know it is welcomed then we will bring it back someday.