{"product_id":"the-first-stroke-mar-2026","title":"The First Stroke","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"512\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Beginner’s Shodō Workshop\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"250\" data-end=\"512\"\u003eThis 2-hour introductory, hands-on workshop is designed for beginners and offers an immersive introduction to the fundamentals of Japanese calligraphy (Shodō). Through a meditative calligraphy process, participants will explore the balance between mind and body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"1115\"\u003eThe workshop begins with a brief overview of the history of Japanese calligraphy and the Japanese writing system, followed by instruction in essential techniques. These include the proper use of the brush and tools, posture and etiquette, and an introduction to the unique qualities of Japanese \u003cem data-start=\"809\" data-end=\"820\"\u003egasen-shi\u003c\/em\u003e paper and \u003cem data-start=\"831\" data-end=\"837\"\u003esumi\u003c\/em\u003e ink. Participants will then choose one kanji character from a selection of three to five options, each presented with its meaning. Guided step by step by the artist, participants will receive individual support as they practice writing their chosen character on \u003cem data-start=\"1100\" data-end=\"1108\"\u003ehanshi\u003c\/em\u003e paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1117\" data-end=\"1490\"\u003eThe workshop introduces foundational calligraphy styles, focusing on the formal Regular Script (\u003cem data-start=\"1220\" data-end=\"1228\"\u003eKaisho\u003c\/em\u003e). Participants will practice and create their own calligraphy artwork on \u003cem data-start=\"1400\" data-end=\"1408\"\u003ehanshi\u003c\/em\u003e-sized paper while reflecting on the meaning embodied in their selected character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1492\" data-end=\"1553\"\u003eAll materials are provided. No prior experience is necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1555\" data-end=\"1648\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1555\" data-end=\"1568\"\u003eCapacity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8 participants\u003cbr data-start=\"1583\" data-end=\"1586\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1586\" data-end=\"1599\"\u003eLocation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Atelier Towa, West Adams, Los Angeles (address shared after registration)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: \u003c\/strong\u003eSelect the date from the following;\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Atelier Towa","offers":[{"title":"Sat. March 14 1PM-3PM","offer_id":46157326155975,"sku":null,"price":110.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Sat. April 11 1PM-3PM","offer_id":46157384483015,"sku":null,"price":110.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/2551\/8023\/files\/The_First_Stroke_Beginners-Workshop.png?v=1770754377","url":"https:\/\/ateliertowa.com\/products\/the-first-stroke-mar-2026","provider":"Atelier Towa","version":"1.0","type":"link"}