Master Aiping Cheng’s Chen Style Taiji
This video shows Aiping Cheng performing the first part of the Chen 56 form. I picked this particular version of the Chen style to show the monumental way in which Master Cheng uses "sung" and "empty" to create a fluid, almost water-like structure that imparts an image of grace and beauty yet belies an underlying power that is quick, sharp and elusive like the strike of a coiled snake.
What perplexed me about the video were the diverse comments made by viewers on YouTube.com. Some, of course, were quite complimentary. But others were critical and even demeaning. Needless to say, that touched a nerve when I read such negativity.
How far must a martial artist advance in order to gain universal acceptance of his or her skills? Is there any degree of our art which transcends criticism?
What do you think of Master Cheng's performance? And what are your feelings toward the my criticism of her detractors?
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