Workshop at Eastern Michigan University

I visited the class "Introduction to Japanese Language and Culture" at Eastern Michigan University. I did two classes of presentations about "What is Shodo" and "Hands-on" workshop for 75 minutes each. It was too short to explain and have them experience well, but it was fun! I have been inspired by the young spirit of college students!!

Later on, I received thank you cards from students. Also, I was shared their review of the class. It made my day!!

Student 1) 

Today we did Japanese calligraphy! I was super excited for this class. Fujii sensei made it not only fun, but also interesting. She explained the history of calligraphy and the correct way to do it. I never realized how much really went into Japanese calligraphy. I thought the love kanji looked the most complicated, so I chose that one. It’s also not just about stroke order, sometimes you have to keep your brush paused to let the ink rush down into the paper before you can keep going. This was pretty eye-opening for me because I didn’t realize just how artistic and beautiful it was. Fujii sensei told us to “feel the meaning of the kanji”. I thought just that sentence was beautiful.

Student 2) 

It was actually pretty difficult to get the thickness of the lines, and shape of them correct. The change in pressure and how much ink was on the brush was important to accomplish that. This was my first experience trying this, and it gives me a new respect for the art of calligraphy. I can now see why the competitions exist, and how one can express emotion through that art form.

Student  3) 

I think I will remember this class today, because it enlightened us on what the writing system in Japan can invoke if we look for the different kanji within said character. For example, “ai” meaning love has the word “kokoro” for spirit or heart in the middle because the heart is related to love. As time passes, this system will most likely stay the same and I believe that is perfect. It is such a beautiful feeling painting the characters out. 

Students' review made my day!