Shodo: Introduction to Japanese Calligraphy

Begin by getting to know Rie. As a seasoned calligrapher and artist, her focus lies on teaching her students to concentrate on their inner Qi (energy flow) with every brushstroke. Discover the wide range of influences and inspirations which have shaped her style.

Learn the background and essentials of Shodo, and how it intertwines with mushin, meditative clarity of the mind. Rie teaches three of the essential calligraphy styles and techniques. Then she guides you through the different materials used in Shodo, giving you recommendations on what and how to get them.

Before painting, learn to release tension in both the body and mind using guided meditation and becoming aware of your inner Qi. After warming up physically and spiritually, practice basic Shodo brush strokes while continuing to channel your energy flow from your body, through the ink, and onto paper.

Next, draw the calligraphy characters that represent “evening moon.” Rie guides you step by step through the setup and technique. Then, practice seisho, which is clear, transparent calligraphy that must be done with mushin, a clear mind. Each step has its own (Japanese) name and procedure, which Rie meticulously unravels.

Create a stamp with your name in katakana, Japanese syllabary, to sign your work. Adjust the final touches by fine-tuning the composition, and mounting your work. Rie wraps up the course by reflecting on everything that was covered and the meditative processes practiced. Finally, she encourages you to continue exploring and experimenting with the art of Shodo.