This is a series of workshops designed by Azumi Uchitani to explore Japanese culture through the art of calligraphy and language. We will meet bi-weekly, slowly moving from season to season and uncovering new characters, rituals, concepts and beliefs deeply rooted in Japanese lifestyle. Each event we will centre around a new symbol: we will learn its meaning, discuss a poem about it, meditate and experience the power of the concept through calligraphy practice.
Knot: 結
In Japanese culture, the concept of “結” (knot, tie up), or “musubu,” holds a deep and multifaceted significance. This kanji represents the act of binding, connecting, and uniting, reflecting the essence of relationships, harmony, and the interconnectedness of all things. “Musubi” is interwoven with traditional customs, such as the art of decorative knot tying known as “kumihimo,” which symbolizes the weaving together of various elements to create a harmonious whole. This concept extends beyond the tangible to encompass the intangible threads that connect people, moments, and ideas. This, in the context of Shinto beliefs, “musubi” represents the divine force that brings individuals together, fostering a sense of unity and community. Furthermore, this concept finds resonance in familial bonds, rituals, and ceremonies that celebrate milestones and the joining of lives. “Musubi” is a reflection of Japanese culture’s emphasis on interconnectedness, continuity, and the relationships that shape everyday life. Combined with another Kanji character 婚 (kon), it forms a meaning of marriage 結婚 (kekkon).
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GUIDE – 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 is on a mission to build an essential bridge between Japan and Europe, helping global leaders discover Japanese ancient wisdom beyond culture, teaching how to apply its wisdom in everyday life, act with inner peace and create conscious leadership and fulfilling life. 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. Her insights, a series of talks are available on her YouTube channel ‘5 minutes on Japanese Wisdom’ on YouTube.
http://www.azumiuchitani.com
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