Helen (Haiyan) Grzelak to demonstrate Chinese calligraphy

Haiyan Grzelak’s Bio

Haiyan was born in Shanghai, grew up in Beijing and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Jilin University, China. She earned her MBA from The University of Connecticut School of Business (EMBA program). Haiyan is a Certified Tea Master from China and co-founder of Lotus Leaf Tea (www.LotusLeafTea.com). Haiyan is also a Guzheng (an ancient Chinese instrument) musician. As a cultural ambassador in the US, Haiyan has been invited to speak about and perform traditional Chinese culture at many CT locations.

About Chinese calligraphy

Chinese calligraphy created 6000 years ago is one of the most highly-prized oriental art forms. It is like a painting which uses Chinese brush and ink to write Chinese characters to communicate the natural world and the spiritual world of the artist.  The practicing of Chinese calligraphy is like a moving meditation for self development and achieving inner harmony. Chinese calligraphy materials, named as The Four Treasures, consist of ink, brush, ink stone and paper has been known and used in China for thousands of years.

Haiyan demonstrates Chinese calligraphy in a unique way. She starts her presentation by playing her Guzheng music (an ancient Chinese instrument), which will connect the audience to the energy of ancient China. She draws pictures of the natural world, such as mountains, water, sun, moon and bamboo. Then she transforms the pictures into the Chinese characters so people can understand the art form of Chinese calligraphy.