Japanese Calligraphy: The Art of SHODO

One of the most celebrated and revered forms of artistic expression in Japanese culture is calligraphy. The calligraphy tradition, also known as Shodo, which translates to "the way of writing," was introduced to Japan by China in the sixth century A.D. Since then, a style and technique unique to Japan have emerged, and it has been practised by samurai, nobility, and commoners alike.

True calligraphy takes decades to master and can be as valuable as paintings and other forms of Japanese art. The practice is more than just art; it is a harmonious and philosophical process expressed through the careful arrangement of brush strokes. Japanese calligraphy combines poetry, literature, and painting into a single art form that combines rhythm, emotion, aesthetics, and spirituality. It is so important to Japanese culture and ideals that it is taught to Japanese children as early as elementary school.

A Synopsis of Japanese Calligraphy's History

The origins of Japanese calligraphy can be traced back to the Han dynasty in China, with all basic forms developed by 220 A.D. It was first used in Japan in the sixth century A.D. as a means of communication between countries. Though ideographic elements have been found in writing systems since around 2500 B.C., the Japanese calligraphic manuscript became so sophisticated that cultures all over the world admire it today.

What is the purpose of Japanese calligraphy?

Japanese calligraphy serves many functions. It is both an art form and a means of communication, as well as a Zen practice that promotes harmony and wisdom. This valuable skill is handed down through generations, emphasising the beauty and balance of the writing. Calligraphers use a bamboo brush and Sumi ink, which is made from pine tree soot, to create sweeping, flowing brushstrokes similar to painting. It's a fluid, spontaneous movement with sacred significance in each line. Calligraphy, like Japanese tea ceremonies, ikebana (the Japanese art of flower arrangement), and other forms of artistic expression, serves as a meditative, spiritual offering.

Shodo Writing Styles

Shodo styles have evolved over time, with many reflecting the trends or residing rulers at the time. Even if two works of art are considered to have the same writing style, each skilled calligrapher has their own unique expression and method of executing that style. The three main types of Shodo styles that are widely practised today are.,

• Kaisho: Students of Shodo typically begin by learning Kaisho. This block style is considered the foundation of other less formal writing styles, and as such, it is required to get a proper feel for the craft.
• Gyosho: Gyosho literally means "moving style," which accurately describes the calligraphy technique used in this style. Gyosho, a semi-cursive script with fewer angular characters, is less formal and rigid than Kaisho.
• Sosho: Sosho calligraphy is the most difficult to learn and master. This cursive style is intended to mimic the effect of wind-blown grass, where characters flow into one another. To create a smooth writing sensation, strokes are greatly modified, and sometimes even eliminated.

Older Remarkable Writing Forms

• Tensho: Tensho, possibly the oldest writing style, was created before paper and ink existed. It is known as the "seal script" because it was once used to create seals for stamping impressions onto other materials. In Japan, it is still used on seals today.
• Reisho: In comparison to Tensho, Reisho developed a more practical and efficient writing style. This writing style, known as "the scribe's script," was created with ink on wood or bamboo stripes. It's still used on Japanese banknotes today.

Tools, Techniques, and Characteristics of Japanese Calligraphy

Tools

The tools used in Japanese calligraphy and other Asian traditions are among the most significant developments in the craft, and are even referred to as the "Four Treasures of the Study." These four treasures, or "jewels," are the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone.

• Brush (Fude): The brush is arguably the most important tool for successfully executing the craft. There are two types of brushes used: the hosofude, which is a thin brush, and the futofude, which is a thicker brush. 
• Ink (Sumi): While the earliest writing inks were made from naturally occurring minerals such as graphite, they are now made from pine branch soot. 
• Mulberry Paper (Washi): This traditional Japanese paper is typically tougher and absorbs ink better than ordinary paper.
• Inkstone (Suzuri): To make ink, artists use an inkstone to rub Sumi ink black.

Characteristics and Techniques

Shodo is first and foremost an art form, so characteristics and techniques are just starting points for the artist to put his or her own spin on each piece.

• Ways to Hold a Brush
• Choice of Paper
• Basic Brush Strokes

Calligraphy, like other Japanese arts and antiques, was brought to Japan from another culture. When the Japanese adopted the practice, they quickly made it their own, developing new styles and techniques that were uniquely Japanese. Today, it is regarded as one of the most beautifully articulated art forms in Japanese culture and is valued similarly to highly regarded paintings. Collectors of Japanese art can appreciate the complexities of each brush stroke as well as the spiritual and meaningful nature of each work.

"If music is the art to express the spirit of word with the voice and instruments

Sho is the art that expresses the spirit of word with the brush and ink "

-Rie Takeda