During our sessions, participants will:

- learn how to breathe while doing japanese calligraphy;
- relax and focus by following a short meditation session;
- practise basic brushstrokes and try to master a new Japanese character;
- discover origin and different meanings of the kanji;
- enjoy a welcoming atmosphere of a small group and supportive tutor.

Why learning Japanese calligraphy with us?

Affordable drawing tools

Although using calligraphy brush, ink and rice paper offers an authentic experience, participants are welcome to join us with pens, markers, printing paper and crayons.

Freedom of expression

In our class we don’t seek perfection. We believe that calligraphy reflects on our inner state in the moment and everyone creates a piece of art.

Focusing on fundamentals

We focus on fundamentals: how to align our body, mind, emotions and calligraphy practice instead of trying to simply reproduce kanji.

Full immersion in the art of kanji

Every class starts with a short and very insightful introduction of kanji and how it is understood as a concept by Japanese. A delight for anyone passionate about cultural differences!

Privacy

Our groups are always small and all sessions are private (not recorded).

Balance and harmony

We see Japanese calligraphy art as a way to reach more balance and harmony.
Request a trial session

How do we work?

Our Speaker
Azumi Uchitani

Azumi Uchitani is an Intercultural business consultant, keynote speaker, writer, artist and founder of Japanese SALON art & culture, based in the Netherlands. She is a two-times TEDx speaker, appearing Dutch TV and media and delivering talks to an international audience in Europe and in the US. Azumi decodes the complexity of Japanese culture, tradition, philosophy, spirituality and unspoken rules into a simple essence of wisdom. She was born into a traditional spiritual Japanese family and raised with the teachings of Shingon Buddhism and Shinto. The spiritual and cultural practices, such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, calligraphy have always been a part of her life, besides that, her grandmother was a kimono maker.

All our calligraphy workshops run for 1h.
And you will be impressed how much can be covered during this time.

  • We will start the session with a presentation exploring a particular concept which is represented by kanji (i.e. dream, spirit, respect etc). We will learn about the origin of the character and see the overall design of the kanji.
  • As the next step you will be offered to close your eyes and follow guided meditation to relax and align with your inner self.
  • After the meditation participants will practise basic brushstrokes as a warm up.
  • And once the group is ready, we will follow the tutor and create 3 versions of the character. Along the process Azumi Uchitani will be always there to advise our guests or answer any questions.
  • We will close our session with a friendly discussion or reflection.

Tools you will need for the japanese calligraphy class

We believe that Japanese calligraphy is like a dance and all you need for it is to be present. However, if you wish to experience it fully and enjoy the smell of the ink and crunchy sound of a rice paper when brush touches it – you will need to get more equipped. Please, note that all materials are available for purchase online or in craft shops. You will need:

  • a calligraphy brush (or a set of brushes if you want to try different strokes). It is possible to try fountain pens or markers as well. Pens and crayons are possible too but will provide a very different sensation;
  • several sheets of paper. Traditionally rice paper is used by Japanese calligraphy scholars. However, you can also experiment with different thickness of paper and get anything from simple printing paper or any paper your notebook has to something more exclusive, like hand-made paper;
  • a bottle of sumi ink. It is possible to try other types of ink or even prepare your own mix by grinding the ink stick into the stone. We will not do it in the class though. Alternatively, you can use watercolours, for example;
  • a piece of felt or a few extra sheets of paper which you can put underneath the art and protect the surface of your table from ink marks.

How to try Japanese Calligraphy?

Complete the form and get a one-time ticket to a Japanese calligraphy class without a monthly subscription.
Privacy Policy
LEVEL © 2024. All Right Reserved.
Forgot Password
Please enter your email address or username below.
 
Please Login