From oracle bone to smartphone: 3000 years of Chinese writing
Friday, October 30, 2026 | 13.30–18.00 hrs I Leiden
From oracle bone to smartphone: 3000 years of Chinese writing
How can a writing system that originated more than 3000 years ago still be alive and kicking today? And what do Chinese characters tell us about China’s history, culture, and identity?
The Netherlands-China Association (VNC), in collaboration with Leiden University, is organising an exciting and interactive afternoon in which we will take you on a fascinating journey through the world of Chinese writing. From mysterious inscriptions on oracle bones and ancient calligraphy to the influence of smartphones and modern technology.
Gabe van Beijeren takes us to the origins of Chinese writing, after which Kirsten playfully lets Chen discover how Chinese characters actually work. Gabe van Beijeren shows why writing plays such an important role in Chinese culture and how it has managed to survive for thousands of years. During the interactive sub-sessions, we will discover the special variety of scripts in China with contributions by Astrid Narguet and Lei Wang will introduce us to the art of Chinese calligraphy, where you can also take up the brush yourself. Finally, we look at Kirsten Chen To the future: how does an age-old writing system adapt to the digital world?
With inspiring speakers, surprising insights, a special calligraphy dance and interactive workshops, it promises to be an afternoon full of discoveries. A unique opportunity not only to better understand the Chinese script, but also to experience it for yourself!
Program – Friday, October 30, 2026
From oracle bone to smartphone: 3000 years of Chinese writing
| Time | Program |
|---|---|
| 13.30 – 14.00 | Walk-in and reception |
| 14.00 – 14.10 | Welcome and spectacular calligraphy dance |
| 14.10 – 14.40 | The origin of the Chinese script – Gabe van Beijeren |
| 14.40 – 15.15 | How do Chinese characters work? – Kirsten Chen |
| 15.15 – 15.45 | Writing and culture: 3000 years of continuity – Gabe van Beijeren |
| 15.45 – 16.05 | Break with coffee and tea |
| 16.05 – 16.50 | Interactive breakout sessions (in parallel): |
| 1. Other Scripts in China – with contribution by Astrid Narguet | |
| 2. Chinese calligraphy: getting started yourself – Lei Wang | |
| 16.50 – 17.20 | The Chinese script today and tomorrow – Kirsten Chen with contribution by Astrid Narguet |
| 17.20 – 17.30 | Joint discussion and conclusion |
| 17.30 – 18.00 | Networking drinks and chat |
About the speakers:
Gabe van Beijeren
Gabe van Beijeren is a lecturer in Classical Chinese and Chinese History at the Institute for Regional Studies at Leiden University.
Kirsten Chen
Kirsten Chen is a student assistant and master’s student in Linguistics at Leiden University, with a background in China Studies.
Astrid Narguet
Astrid is a French curator and specialist in Chinese language, culture and history. Since the 1990s, she has been committed to cultural exchange between China and Europe. She organized and curated numerous exhibitions on Chinese art and culture, including exhibitions on the special Dongba script of the Naxi people and the artistic significance of ancient Chinese characters. Her work connects ancient Chinese traditions with contemporary art and culture.
Lei Wang
Lei was born in Shanghai, has a passion for Chinese calligraphy and painting. As a member of the Dutch-Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Society, she works with traditional ink and brush. For her, calligraphy combines language, movement, rhythm and personal expression. In addition, she is a certified talent counselor and supports families and schools in talent development, giftedness and intercultural upbringing through her practice 137TalentCare.
Friday 30 October 2026 | 13.30–18.00 hrs
Leiden
UniversityHerta Mohr Building, room 0.02
Witte Singel 27A
2311 BG Leiden
VNC members and students free
Non-members €15,- (tickets are non-refundable but transferable)
Register here:
