Calligraphy used to be regarded as the most noble form of art in China. However, it has been expelled from the core of Chinese art in modern times by the power of modernism and the vacuum resulting from the Cultural Revolution. The spirit of humanity it embodies, with independent expression at the core, is being eroded by mass entertainment. This project explores ways to preserve the art of calligraphy and its spirit of independence in an ever-changing political and cultural environment.

The outcome of this exploration is the Calligraphy Archive Centre. Located in the Gobi Desert of Northwest China, it is designed to be far from the urban crowd, like ancient grottoes, in hope that the harsh environment can keep unwanted hands away from the masterpieces of calligraphy.

The centre is in the style of a multi-floored fortress, which harbours classic steles in the cliff grottoes. It also houses calligraphers who choose to stay away from the madding crowd for self-cultivation through copying the masterpieces in peace. The well recognised copied versions can also be passed on and thus contribute further to the preservation of the cultural heritage.