Women's voices spill out of Hidden Letters

Wu continues to create calligraphy works and host exhibitions, after ending the unpleasant relationship. Her works include what she calls "letters in time capsule", comprising a calligraphic rendition of a historical poem and her own verses as a response. The original poem was: I have no right to be in politics. No girl is allowed in school. Living with bound feet, my husband is arranged by my parents. Only nyushu brings me comfort.

And as a reply, Wu writes: I can feel you from your nyushu. As women our hearts connect. You went through so much pain. Now women have a new voice. We're our own king for marriage. My self-reliance and independence gave me freedom.

She says that this poem was written for those women who practiced nyushu in the past, informing them about the changes in women's life and status in the contemporary era, and also meant for herself, reminding herself to remain spiritually independent and never lose herself.

"Nyushu is a mark of women's history, a constant reminder of a time when women endured such dark times. To me, it serves as a beacon, constantly urging me to move forward," Wu says.