Shodo - All About the Japanese Calligraphy
Table of Contents
1. What Does SHODO Mean? The Basics of Japanese Calligraphy
Shodo is Japanese calligraphy – the art of writing with ink and brush. With these tools, one can create fantastic, pictorial characters or highly detailed, precise works of scripture.
The word Shodō is translated as “The Way of Writing.” The first Kanji, SHO (書)means to write, and the second one DŌ (道), means the way or path. Like many Japanese arts (such as Kado – flower arrangement, Sado – tea ceremony, and many martial arts like Aikido, and Judo), using the kanji DŌ gives it a deeper meaning. It is not just an activity; it becomes a way of life. Shodō is, to its fullest extent, a form of self-realization.
Composition, posture, balance, rhythm, speed, and proper handling of the brush are essential for the display of good calligraphy. This form of calligraphy allows us to express ourselves in the “now.” No two calligraphies are ever the same, even when brushed by the same artist, because each line drawn is a representation of a moment in time that has now passed and therefore impossible to recreate. Unlike traditional painting, Shodō is created in one moment and not throughout a few hours or days. We create Shodō in a single go, without modifications or alterations.
2. Exploring the Various Styles of Japanese Calligraphy
Different types of shodo include kaisho (square style) where the strokes in each character are precisely drawn in a printed manner; gyosho (semi-cursive) which is written faster and more loosely; and sosho (cursive) a method where the characters' form is not rigidly followed and the strokes can bend and curve.
3. Unique Tools Used in Japanese Calligraphy
Sumi (墨):
To prepare the ink, add a small amount of water to the inkstone (硯). Grind the Sumi stick in a circular motion until you achieve the desired consistency.
Brush (筆):
Hold the brush vertically with a light grip for precise control of stroke thickness. Experiment with different pressures to create varying line widths.
Paper (半紙):
Choose Hanshi, traditional Japanese paper, which absorbs ink smoothly. Place the paper on a flat surface to avoid smudging while writing.
Inkstone (硯):
Use the inkstone as a stable surface for grinding ink. Clean the inkstone with water after each use to maintain its longevity.
4. A Journey Through the History of Calligraphy
Shodo originated in China and developed all of its basic forms by the end of the Han dynasty in 220 AD. It was then introduced into Japan during the 6th century AD. In Japan, Chinese characters were gradually modified for the Japanese language and came to be known as kanji, non-phonetic symbols used to represent entire words. In addition, the Japanese developed two phonetic alphabets, known as hiragana and katakana, which are similar to the Latin alphabet used in Western countries in that their individual characters are used to represent sounds rather than entire words.
Influenced by various cultural and religious factors, including the introduction of Buddhism, calligraphy became more than just writing; it became a means of spiritual expression. Today, it remains a prominent part of Japanese life, embraced by children as a hobby and integrated into education. Its elegance graces ceremonial letters, signage, and interior decor, serving as a timeless symbol of tradition and artistic expression in everyday settings.
5. How to Learn Calligraphy When You Don't Live in Japan
For those keen on delving into Japanese calligraphy outside Japan, there are several avenues to explore. If there's a local classroom nearby, attending in-person sessions can provide invaluable hands-on experience and guidance.
Alternatively, the online realm offers a wealth of resources. You can purchase instructional materials online and find numerous calligraphy tutorials on platforms like YouTube, taught by experienced calligraphers. Additionally, there are online courses available, providing flexibility and accessibility from anywhere in the world. One effective study method involves "copying from models," where you replicate characters while referencing exemplar works.
Whether through traditional classrooms or virtual platforms, there are ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the art of Japanese calligraphy and refine your skills.
YouTube Channels:
Gohitsu Shodo Kai
https://www.youtube.com/@Gohitsushodostudio
書道らぶ
https://www.youtube.com/@Shodolove/videos
杏綸 calligraphy salon
https://www.youtube.com/@arinkoshojuku/videos
書道家 東宮たくみ
https://www.youtube.com/@takumitohgu
海 書道チャンネル
https://www.youtube.com/@kai_shodo
Online Courses:
Udemy
https://www.udemy.com/courses/search/?src=ukw&q=japanese+calligraphy
JAPAN SOCIETY
https://japansociety.org/language-center/calligraphy/