16th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Words of wisdom

A 94 years old Chinese Calligrapher that has been writing Chinese calligraphy for most of his life. He was sitting an ally just off the usual tourist spot. Every day he sits in the same location waiting for a person to speak to him. Only through conversation will one know of his talent. Through Chinese calligraphy, you can feel his wisdom has been built on years of invaluable life experience. The type of calligraphy he practices is one that writes proverbs on red paper that gives good fortune to the receiver. The two proverbs he has written on the table are; may all your wish come true and safe travels, which he insisted is the only thing you need in life. Such words bring forward a sense of simplicity that is often forgotten in today's hyperconnected and materialistic driven world, especially in Hong Kong which is driven by monetary and consumeristic society. Culture, wisdom is buried under the hands of neoliberalism.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2018
Date Uploaded: 11.2018
Photo Location: Sheung Wan , Hong Kong
Camera: X-T20
Copyright: © Philippe Li