Review of previous years
2020 Hengshan Awards: Biennial Awards for Calligraphy Research and Criticism

2020 

The Taoyuan Museum of Fine Arts (hereinafter referred to as TMoFA) established the Hengshan Awards for Calligraphy Research and Criticism (hereinafter referred to as the "Hengshan Awards") to cultivate and discover talents in calligraphy research and critique. This initiative focuses on the study and commentary of contemporary calligraphy, exploring its local and international dimensions, tradition and innovation, and theoretical and practical aspects. The first call for submissions was held in 2020, running from July 1 to August 31, 2020.

The Hengshan Awards are divided into two categories: Research Papers and Art Criticism. Submissions must be original works written within the past three years that have not been officially published or received any awards or grants. Individuals may participate in both categories simultaneously. The awards are open to all participants, regardless of nationality, residence, or age, encouraging a diverse range of voices to contribute to the rich landscape of calligraphy research and critique. The Research Papers category offers a top prize of NT$150,000, with merit awards of NT$30,000. The Art Criticism category offers a top prize of NT$100,000, with merit awards of NT$20,000.

Winners of the Hengshan Awards were selected through a two-stage evaluation process. From 16 shortlisted entries, 7 works were chosen to be included in a special publication. The award ceremony took place on March 28, 2021, with distinguished guests Bai Qianshen (Professor at the College of Art and Archaeology, Zhejiang University) and Liao Hsin-tien (then Director of the National Museum of History) delivering speeches on behalf of the jury. The ceremony and accompanying forum were also broadcast live via video and online streaming, allowing more people to participate in this cultural event remotely.