国际书法协会 · Est. 2021 · San Marino, CA

Preserving the living art of Chinese calligraphy.

The International Shufa Association is a 501(c)(3) cultural nonprofit advancing the study, practice, and exchange of Shufa — the centuries-old art of brush, ink, and the written word — for a global audience.

  • 501(c)(3)Tax-exempt nonprofit
  • 2021Year founded
  • EIN 86-1662553IRS registered
Shūfǎ — “the method of writing”

— Our Mission

A bridge between brush and world.

We promote cultural understanding and exchange through the arts, with a particular devotion to Chinese calligraphy. From classical regular script to flowing cursive, we believe each brushstroke carries a heritage — and a future — worth sharing.

Our work spans exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and intergenerational programs that connect master practitioners with new students, and Eastern tradition with Western audiences.

Classification
Cultural & Ethnic Awareness — NTEE A23
Headquarters
San Marino, California
Tax status
501(c)(3) — donations tax-deductible
President & Founder

— Leadership

Haixin Tao 陶海心

President & Chief Executive

Haixin Tao founded the International Shufa Association in 2021 to give Chinese calligraphy a sustained voice in American cultural life. A lifelong practitioner, her conviction is simple: calligraphy is not a relic to be preserved behind glass, but a living practice that teaches patience, presence, and respect for tradition.

Under her leadership, the Association serves as a meeting point for artists, scholars, students, and collectors who share a love for the brush.

  • Haixin Tao — President / CEO
  • David Hsu — Chief Financial Officer

— What We Do

Programs & cultural exchange.

Four pillars guide our work — each a different way to bring Shufa to life for new audiences.

01

Exhibitions

Curated showings of historic and contemporary calligraphy — solo retrospectives, juried group shows, and traveling exhibitions in partnership with cultural institutions.

02

Workshops & Instruction

Hands-on classes in brush technique, ink preparation, and the five canonical scripts — from beginning students to advanced practitioners refining their hand.

03

Lectures & Scholarship

Talks, panels, and publications exploring the aesthetics, history, and philosophy of Shufa within both Chinese and global art traditions.

04

Cultural Exchange

Bilateral residencies and collaborations connecting calligraphers across continents, fostering dialogue between Eastern heritage and Western audiences.

— Calendar

Upcoming events.

  • OCT18

    Brush & Stillness — Beginner Workshop

    A four-hour introduction to the fundamentals of regular script. Materials provided. San Marino studio, limited to twelve seats.

    Saturday · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM · San Marino, CA

    Reserve →
  • NOV09

    Annual Members Exhibition — Opening Reception

    Twenty-six new works from members across California, with a short opening lecture on the lineage of cursive script.

    Saturday · 6:00 PM · Venue announced to members

    Details →
  • DEC07

    Lecture — “The Brush as Breath”

    An evening on the philosophical dimensions of Shufa, from Wang Xizhi to the modern studio. Open to the public; donations welcomed.

    Saturday · 7:00 PM · Pasadena

    RSVP →

— Get in Touch

Visit, write, or join us.

We welcome inquiries from artists, students, scholars, donors, and cultural partners. Tax-deductible contributions help us host exhibitions, fund residencies, and keep classes accessible.

Address
2233 Huntington Drive
San Marino, CA 91108
EIN
86-1662553 · 501(c)(3)
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