 As western calligraphy is the art of beautifully writing letters, Shodo, the writing of kanji and kana characters with a brush, is considered art along the same lines. Kanji characters, each of which are complex to write, have an individual meaning. In Shodo, kanji and kana characters are written using a brush and sumi, which means ink, and as a result differences can be seen in each letter, in respects such as strength, suppleness, thickness, etc., even in different versions of the same character. In addition, Shodo allows calligraphers to express their intent and emotions. As the result of achieving harmony between the beauty of expression and of content, Shodo can be said to be a creative art that allows the expression of spiritual depth and beauty.Kanji was brought to Japan from China in the year 285, and a Korean priest named Doncho introduced the first paper and sumi for use in Shodo in 610. Today, although various categories of Shodo exist, it can be primarily classified into two forms; one is for practical use, and is easy to read and write in accordance with guidelines, another features a more artistic style of writing, allowing the writer to convey personality and emotion. Whichever is chosen, it is necessary to learn three basic elements at the start, which are the appropriate brush strokes, the meaning and the brush intensity. To practice Shodo as a creative art, one must agree on both the appropriate writing style and sumi color during the iterative process of writing and re-writing the chosen character. For example, if one wishes to write the character for "flower," practicing Shodo, it is necessary to ponder a suitable sumi colour and flower style, while imagining which flower to draw, such as a lovely cherry blossom or a sturdy sunflower, etc. Being unable to understand the characters or sentences written should not be seen as an obstacle to the appreciation of Shodo, and it is sufficient to be somehow moved by the work. In Shodo circles, it is said that a good work of art is not one that is gracefully written, but rather one that moves the observer. Since Shodo was an important subject in school education in the first half of the 20th century, most Japanese over the age of seventy are able to write with a brush. Nowadays, the subject of Shodo is considered an elective, and those who wish to study either attend Shodo school, or learn through a correspondence course. In Japan there are occasions, such as formal ceremonies, where one is required to write one's name and address using a brush. Thus, those who wish to learn are not only motivated by an interest in Shodo, but also with the purpose of becoming able to write characters beautifully using a brush. Meanwhile, a seasonal event called Kakizome, which is the writing of auspicious or lucky words on a paper called a hanshi, using a brush, is held throughout various regions on January 2nd as one New Year’s custom.  Previous generations of Japanese parents used to actively make their children
learn Shodo in an attempt to calm their restless minds. Prior to writing
any character, it is necessary to grind an ink-cake, which in itself brings
a certain peace of mind. Today, people prefer to write using word processors
and computers, rather than through the use of handwriting, but just once
wouldn't it be nice to experience the unique feeling using the brush as
a tool to communicate through the fingertips? (End) |