Donovan Catholic High School, Toms River, hosts 42 international students, many of whom hail from China.

Xinyu (Cindy) Hu is one such Chinese student attending Donovan for the first time as a junior.

Recently, her parents visiting from Guang Dong, China, spent time at the school and her father, Zhishi (Dennis) Hu taught an art class on traditional Chinese calligraphy. Caren Stichter, art instructor and her class welcomed Hu, who is a highly respected professional calligrapher in China.

Cindy’s studies this semester do not include art, but she was able to assist her dad for the art lesson. Hu was prepared with a slide presentation on the various styles of calligraphy as they were influenced throughout the history of China. Hu gave lessons and illustrated examples of words for the American art students to copy. He handed out authentic Chinese brushes and paper to each student and instructed them on how to properly hold the brush and make the strokes.

Stichter said, “Mr. Hu was truly honored to be able to share his knowledge with the students and the students really appreciated the ‘hands on time’ and using the materials.”

Hu donated all of the supplies that he brought with him to the art department and created two beautiful calligraphy works of art that he presented to Dr. Edward Gere, principal of Donovan Catholic, as a way to thank the  school for welcoming him. One art work is for the school and one was specifically designated for the art department.

Several of the other international students from China were also present in the class. Hu spoke English well, but the Chinese students were able to assist with some of the more difficult words.

Stichter commented, “ The International students who were able to be there were a great assistance to Hu, but more importantly I think they were proud that they were able to help and share their culture with their American classmates.”