Huzhou writing brushes from Shanlian town in Huzhou, Zhejiang province, are among the attractions at the second Bangkok Chinese Character Art Festival, which opened at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand on Sept 1.

Running until Sept 5, the festival features more than 80 works by Chinese and Thai artists, alongside woodblock printing, hanfu (traditional Chinese attire) experiences, and other cultural activities. It also marks the second consecutive year that Huzhou writing brush culture has been present at the event.

Brush companies from Shanlian are displaying traditional writing brushes as well as products that combine the craft with ceramics, silk, and digital media. Visitors can also try using the brushes, adding a hands-on element to the exhibition.

The second Bangkok Chinese Character Art Festival is held at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand. [Photo/Tide News]

Wang Xiaoming, head of the Shanlian Chinese Character Art Research Institute, said Huzhou writing brushes are being increasingly combined with Chinese character art, contemporary design, and aesthetics.

The Bangkok event follows other international appearances by Huzhou writing brushes, with a brush set developed by Zhang Xiaofeng's team from Huzhou presented as a Chinese state gift during the 2025 APEC meetings in South Korea, and four Huzhou writing brush products combining soccer elements with Chinese aesthetics released as officially licensed merchandise during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.