Shocking! The nation is giving her strong support to become a top crossover influencer.

Chapter 21 "National Ink and Brush Cup" Calligraphy and Painting Competition

As Grandpa Xie listened to Jiang Songchu's praise, the light in his eyes grew brighter and brighter, and his mouth stretched almost to his ears, his joy overflowing.

He quickly finished the porridge in his bowl, got up and walked towards the study, muttering, "Come on, Xiao Chu, come with Grandpa to the study."

Jiang Songchu quickly finished the last piece of bread and drank the milk. After greeting everyone, he went to the study with Grandpa Xie.

Everyone stared in astonishment at the scene.

Xie Zhenghua coughed lightly, concealing his amusement: "Everyone, please continue eating, and then go about your business."

Grandma Feng said with a smile, "It's been a long time since I've seen the old man so happy."

Amidst the laughter and chatter, Jiang Songchu and Grandpa Xie arrived at the study.

As soon as you step into the study, a delicate blend of the fragrance of books and ink wafts over you, as if instantly shutting out the noise of the outside world.

The study is decorated in a Chinese style, with solid wood furniture and wooden floors creating a warm and rustic atmosphere.

Jiang Songchu felt somewhat dazed as soon as she entered the room, as if she had traveled through time and returned to the Gu Tianrong she knew.

She looked up at a corner of the study and saw a large desk standing quietly there, its surface neat and orderly, with several stacks of books arranged in a uniform manner.

Next to it was a simple, antique-style table lamp, emitting a soft glow.

In another corner of the desk, a set of exquisite writing brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones is neatly arranged, as if waiting for the next creative inspiration to arrive.

Next to the desk, a simple and elegant easel stands quietly, upon which rests an unfinished traditional Chinese ink painting. The brushstrokes reveal the grandeur of mountains and rivers and the vitality of plants, inspiring admiration.

Beside the easel, several completed paintings and calligraphic works are hanging on a specially made drying rack with clips, swaying gently in the breeze.

The scent of ink and the freshness of paper blend together, creating a delightful and refreshing experience.

The study is surrounded by towering bookshelves filled with all kinds of books, like an endless ocean of knowledge.

Several potted green plants adorn the bookshelf, adding a touch of life and vitality to this space.

Beside it, a comfortable sofa and coffee table provide an excellent place for reading or taking a break.

Jiang Songchu couldn't help but praise, "Grandpa, you've decorated this place so well."

Grandpa Xie laughed heartily upon hearing this, then pointed to the unfinished painting and said, "Xiao Chu, I've been working on this painting for a long time, but I always feel like something's missing. Can you help Grandpa take a look and tell me what's wrong?"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Songchu stepped forward to examine the painting closely.

The scene depicts majestic mountains, lush vegetation, swirling clouds and mist, and flowing streams, brimming with life and vitality.

She thought about it for a while, then suddenly her eyes lit up and she said to Grandpa Xie, "Grandpa, you should add a bird to the painting."

Then, she recited Wang Wei's poem: "After the rain in the empty mountains, autumn arrives in the evening. The bright moon shines between the pines, and the clear spring flows over the rocks."

After listening to Jiang Songchu recite the poem, Grandpa Xie pondered for a while and then suddenly understood.

He exclaimed in admiration, “The poem not only describes the empty mountains after the rain, the pine forest under the bright moon, and the clear spring flowing over the rocks, but also implies the imagery of birds returning to the forest. Therefore, this painting should indeed include a bird that is faintly visible.”

After saying that, he laughed heartily, picked up a calligraphy brush from the side and handed it to Jiang Songchu: "Xiao Chu, you draw this flying bird for Grandpa. You also write this poem for Grandpa."

Jiang Songchu did not refuse; she confidently accepted the calligraphy brush.

Under Grandpa Xie's watchful gaze, she fearlessly began to write.

With a gentle flick and a hook, a faintly visible bird leaps onto the paper, demonstrating considerable skill.

Then, she inscribed a poem by Wang Wei on one side of the painting.

As Grandpa Xie watched Jiang Songchu carefully write the poem, the light in his eyes grew brighter and brighter.

After Jiang Songchu put down his brush, he hurriedly stepped forward and exclaimed, "Xiao Chu, your painting of the bird is so lifelike! The position and structure are just right, it's simply a masterpiece!"

"Leaving aside the birds, your handwriting is also flowing and powerful. Every stroke is unique, with its own style, showcasing a distinctive charm and beauty! You're truly amazing!"

Grandpa Xie was filled with joy and pride. It was a great blessing in his life to be able to see such excellent calligraphy and paintings!

Today, calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting, these treasures of traditional culture, are facing unprecedented challenges in their inheritance.

In this rapidly changing technological age, the traditional arts of calligraphy and Chinese painting seem to be gradually fading from people's view and being replaced by the new generation of digital trends.

Many people have never even had the chance to touch that ancient and charming calligraphy brush, let alone appreciate the fragrance of ink and the artistic conception within it.

However, when Grandpa Xie met Jiang Songchu, a girl who was only fifteen years old, he couldn't help but feel an indescribable joy.

The fact that this young girl can demonstrate such extraordinary talent in the fields of calligraphy and painting is undoubtedly a shining pearl in the contemporary literary world.

Just as Grandpa Xie was immersed in this surprise, his thoughts drifted and he suddenly remembered the upcoming "Guomo Danqing Cup" calligraphy and painting competition.

This is undoubtedly a golden opportunity for her; perhaps Jiang Songchu can shine there.

He thought to himself: If this little guy could participate, he might actually bring back a trophy!

Grandpa Xie looked at Jiang Songchu with anticipation and asked, "Little Chu, the preliminary round of the 'National Ink and Wash Cup' calligraphy and painting competition will be held in October. Are you interested in giving it a try? I have high hopes for you!"

As soon as Grandpa Xie finished speaking, the system seemed to cheer for this opportunity, simultaneously issuing a task: "Chu Chu, a new basic task is here: Pass the preliminary round of the calligraphy and painting competition, and you will be rewarded with 20,000 yuan and 200 experience points. At the same time, an advanced task is triggered: 'Ancient Calligraphy and Painting Promotion Ambassador', with the goal of attracting 100,000 people to develop an interest in ancient calligraphy and painting. Current progress: 1/."

Jiang Songchu was slightly taken aback, then felt somewhat helpless; these system tasks always arrived late.

"Grandpa, how do I register for the competition?" She couldn't help but smile as she looked at Grandpa Xie's excited expression.

Grandpa Xie could tell from Jiang Songchu's expression that the matter was almost certain.

He patted his chest confidently and said, "Xiao Chu, just show me your work, and I'll take care of the registration!"

Jiang Songchu nodded gratefully and said, "Thank you, Grandpa!"

Then he asked, "Grandpa, can I draw here? I can finish it quickly."

Upon hearing this, Grandpa Xie immediately gave up his seat, demonstrating his support through his actions.

While he was busy preparing paper and ink for Jiang Songchu, he kept saying, "Use it as you like! Grandpa will go get you the best paper right away!"