Take your first steps into the beautiful and captivating art of shodō!
Japanese calligraphy, known as shodō or shūji, is one of the oldest and most traditional artforms in Japan. This artistic writing style originated in ancient China and its usage in Japan can be traced as far back as the 5th century. Today, shodō is both revered and enjoyed across the world as a form of popular artistic expression.
In this introductory workshop, artist Vanessa Knott will lay the foundation for your very own Japanese calligraphy journey.
The workshop will include a short tour of Minoru Nomata’s exhibition, Windscape, followed by a presentation providing a fascinating insight into the history and philosophy of the art of shodō. The workshop will begin with learning new skills through warm up exercises and then progressing to create your very own piece of Japanese kanji calligraphy, using ink and brush on washi paper.
This workshop will make it possible for you to learn and enjoy the beauty of shodō. All materials will be provided, so let’s lose ourselves in the soothing process and have fun!
Event Timings: 11.30am-1pm
This event is suitable for ages 14+
Vanessa Knott is an artist & illustrator based in Eastbourne, East Sussex. Inspired by the style of line art found in graphic novels and manga, Vanessa has sought to foster her love for mark making and expressive brushwork on paper. Motivated by her interest in all things mythological and fantastical, she enjoys learning about the symbolic significance of varying creatures and beings depicted in folkloric traditions and legends from around the world.
Vanessa has been working at DLWP since early 2020 and exhibits drawings at local venues and comic-con events. Throughout her artistic practise, she likes meeting creative individuals who have a passion for pop culture, sci-fi and fantasy art.
During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Vanessa took up the art of Japanese calligraphy, otherwise known as shodō, and has been practising ever since.
“For me, it was a way to get back to basics. When I was experiencing artist block, it was a wonderful way for me to keep up my ink and brush skills, but I soon discovered that shodō offered up so much more than that. As I progressed, it gave me an insight into Japanese culture and a philosophy that helped to keep me focused and calm. It was those unexpected aspects that spur me on to keep practising the beautiful art of shodō!”