Traditionally, Eastern calligraphy and painting have been male-dominated fields. Influenced by cultural beliefs such as “a woman’s virtue is her lack of talent,” many talented female artists’ contributions were marginalized, and some of their works lost the acknowledgment of their creators’ names. Despite the cultural challenges in balancing talent and virtue, numerous women defied these constraints, dedicating themselves to the arts with a passion and skill that equaled their male counterparts.

This exhibition showcases the works of two female artists from the late Qing and early Republican periods, inviting visitors to appreciate the unique artistic beauty of Eastern calligraphy and painting. Through these pieces, we celebrate the resilience and talent of these women, whose “female strength” shines as brightly as any of their male contemporaries.