On the morning of May 13, 2026, the South Coast Chinese Cultural Association (SCCCA) was invited to the 150-year-old Pacific Life Insurance Company to host a “Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month Through Chinese Calligraphy,” celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with company employees.
The workshop focused on AAPI community culture, the preservation of Chinese heritage, and the art of Chinese calligraphy, helping participants gain a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and contributions of AAPI communities in the United States.
Community Light · Cultural Pride
The session began with an introduction to AAPI population distribution in Orange County, using Irvine as an example to highlight the significant presence and impact of the Asian community in the region.
It then guided participants through the evolution of Chinese characters, over 3,000 years of calligraphy history, the “Four Treasures of the Study,” and basic brush strokes, gradually introducing the world of traditional Chinese art.
Participants not only learned about the historical development of Chinese calligraphy but also gained a deeper appreciation of the cultural, philosophical, and aesthetic meanings behind Chinese characters.
Quiet Brush · Lasting Calm
During the hands-on calligraphy session, participants picked up the brush and experienced the art in a moment of calm focus.
Many shared that this was their first real encounter with Chinese calligraphy, and the experience of “slowing down” felt especially meaningful in today’s fast-paced work and life environment.
One participant with a Latino cultural background shared: “Today’s workshop helped me better understand the AAPI community, and made me realize how much we can learn from and appreciate different cultures.”
Another participant said: “In such a busy world, taking the time to focus on writing a Chinese character was truly healing.”
Others reflected on their childhood experiences with calligraphy and how picking up the brush again brought back warm and nostalgic memories.
Art Bridges · Community Connects
The event atmosphere was warm and engaging. Participants not only learned calligraphy techniques but also experienced the harmony, balance, and rhythm embedded in Chinese culture.
As part of this year’s AAPI Heritage Month programming, the workshop served not only as a cultural learning experience but also as a meaningful act of cross-cultural connection and community engagement.
SCCCA also introduced its upcoming third collaboration with Segerstrom Hall on the original musical Legends, which features the stories of Nezha and Chang’e, continuing to share Chinese culture and AAPI heritage with the broader community.
At the end of the event, Pacific Life employees left with their own calligraphy works and heartfelt blessings, marking a warm and memorable conclusion to this cross-cultural exchange.
