Hello everyone! Today, I’d like to share some secrets about studying Shodo (Japanese calligraphy). In Shodo, dignity is of utmost importance.

This is something my mentor taught me during my university days. After entering the workforce, I continued to research and improve my skills by visiting various calligraphy companies and funeral signboard shops to observe the techniques of those more skilled than myself.

I encountered several excellent teachers along the way. I practiced writing characters while receiving stern guidance from them. (Some teachers were older than me, while others were much younger.)

However, it saddens me to see people who have stopped studying and boast about their self-taught style.

If you do Shodo on your own without learning how to study Shodo, you will end up with badly written letters.
You will write a degrading Shodo.

To avoid falling into this trap, please read on and share your thoughts with me! I’d love to hear your feedback!

Mastering the Essence of Shodo: 3 Secrets Passed Down by Masters

The Allure of Shodo: Blending Tradition and Self-Expression

Shodo, the art of Japanese calligraphy, stands as one of the most profound artistic expressions in Japanese traditional culture. It’s not merely a technique of writing characters; it’s an art form where one expresses oneself through the brush, imbuing each stroke with heart and soul. Many of you reading this article may have already stepped into the world of Shodo, captivated by its charm.

However, to truly understand the essence of Shodo and create beautiful calligraphy, simply moving the brush is insufficient. Today, we’ll discuss three crucial elements for improving your Shodo, derived from the long-standing experience of calligraphy masters. These are vital points that all Shodo enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced practitioners, should keep in mind.

1. Breaking Habits: Pursuing Beauty Beyond the Self

Breaking habits means temporarily setting aside your own notions of calligraphy and deeply studying classical works. Those called masters of Shodo never neglect this practice. This is because there’s a risk of compromising the dignity of one’s calligraphy by overly pursuing a unique style.

The Importance of Breaking Habits

• Recognizing and overcoming one’s own habits
• Elevating one’s artistry through in-depth study of classics
• The necessity of continuing this practice regardless of age

2. Character Interpretation: Understanding Meaning, Infusing Heart

The beauty of calligraphy is not just in its form. True Shodo lies in understanding the meaning of characters and expressing their depth. No matter how skillfully written, if the meaning of the characters is not understood, the calligraphy becomes a soulless shell.

The Importance of Interpretative Skills

• Understanding the characteristics and meanings of various styles: Kaisho, Sosho, Gyosho, Reisho, Kinbun
• The importance of being able to decipher historical documents
• The richness of expression born from knowing the meaning

3. Effective Learning Methods: Learning from Classics, Expressing the Self

Proper learning methods are essential for improving in Shodo. Achieving true mastery in Shodo comes from balancing the study of classics with self-expression. Let’s look at effective learning methods in detail.

Basic Steps of Learning

• Start with copying classics using a hard pen
• Thoroughly study masterpieces from Japan and China
• Refine your self-expression through the study of classics

Mastering the Essence of Shodo: A Dialogue with the Self

Shodo is not merely a technique. It’s a dialogue with oneself and with the wisdom of the ancients. By being conscious of these three elements – breaking habits, interpreting characters, and effective learning methods – your calligraphy will reach new heights.

The path of Shodo is an endless journey. However, each step will lead you into a world of beauty. In your daily practice, touch the beauty of the classics and listen to your inner voice. By doing so, your calligraphy will transcend from mere arrangement of characters to an art that resonates with the soul.

Now, take up your brush and open the door to a new world of Shodo. I sincerely hope that the beautiful expression sleeping within you will bloom through your brush.

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