Love of Cultural Heritage

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On view May 27 - May 30, 2026


Love of Cultural Heritage brings together traditional calligraphy and contemporary art in a cross-generational dialogue between artists Ben Hang Chang and Ryan Wu. Through diverse media and perspectives, it reflects the continuity and transformation of cultural identity, connecting past and future through artistic expression. The team of Tamkang University in Taiwan developed the Smart e-Pen system to help young generation to learn calligraphy with an iPad and Apple pencil. The Smart e-Pen redefines calligraphy—eliminating the need for brushes, ink, and rice paper, while keeping the art clean and accessible. The Smart e-Pen system can simulate brush and hard-tip pen writing strokes and reproduce variations in movement, thickness, shade, and speed, designed to make calligraphy easier to learn and teach.

Professor Ben-Hang Chang is a highly representative contemporary Taiwanese calligrapher, educator, and promoter of digital calligraphy from Keelung, Taiwan. He is recognized as a heavyweight figure for his outstanding achievements in brush pen, hard pen, and digital calligraphy, skillfully combining traditional techniques with modern technological vision. His calligraphic style is noted for being vigorous, substantial, and detailed in technique, honoring ancient methods while showcasing modernity. Professor Chang has been a long-time faculty member at Tamkang University in the Department of Chinese Literature. He has served as the President of the Republic of China Calligraphy Association and the President of the International Calligraphy Federation Headquarters. He is a core driver in the development of digital calligraphy in Taiwan. 

Ryan Wu was born in Chicago, IL. As a third-generation Taiwanese American, he is passionate about art, Taiwanese culture and history, and community service. Growing up, every summer Wu went to Taiwan to learn Chinese Mandarin, art, and cultural exchange. He volunteered at the elementary school to teach native students English in 2024. Last summer, Wu visited Professor Ben-Hang Chang and learned the Smart e-Pen system. Wu has also been a member of Evanston Art Center's Teen Board since 2024. He is also the director of the Youth Board for Glencoe Youth Services and the leader of the Brothers Lion Dance Group.
 


 

GALLERY HOURS & VISITOR INFORMATION

This exhibition will be held in the First Floor of the Evanston Art Center (EAC). Masks are optional but strongly recommended for students, visitors and staff.

Gallery Hours

Monday–Thursday: 9am–6pm

Friday: 9am–5pm

Saturday–Sunday: 9am–4pm


HOW TO PURCHASE ARTWORK

Artwork sale proceeds benefit both the artist and the Evanston Art Center. If you are interested in purchasing artwork on display, please contact Emma Rose Gudewicz, Director of Development and Exhibitions, at [email protected] or (847) 475-5300 x 102.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts.
 

Image Credit (L to R): Ryan Yu and Ben Hang Chang, Jade Mountain

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