Akiko Victorson learned the art of Japanese calligraphy, called Shodo, at culture lessons in elementary school from a master calligrapher. Not simply a writing style, the calligraphy is a form of expression developed by Buddhist monks who trained in China. The calligrapher has only one chance to create with the brush, so she must concentrate and be fluid in her execution. To accomplish this, one must clear one’s mind and let the letters flow. For Shodo, one only needs a brush, ink (sumi), paper, and ink stone (suzuri).

Details
Cultural Communities / Countries of
Origins
Japan
Type of Performance
Folk Arts
Festival Appearance
Lit Up