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ZEN AND SHO: Shodō Course for Returning Students

ZEN AND SHO: Shodō Course for Returning Students

$95.00
ABOUT THE COURSE

Shodō is one of the “lifelong studies (生涯学習)” — you can spend your entire life practicing, deepening your knowledge, improving your skill, and essentially pursuing your own style and expressions. These all lead to cultivation of the mind and enrichment of your life. If you enjoy practicing Japanese calligraphy and you would like to practice regularly, both to improve your brush work skills and also develop mindfulness, join our unique classes designed for returning students.

In this monthly series, we will introduce a new Zen phrase each month and practice in calligraphy either in Standard Script (楷書: Kaisho) or Regular Script (行書: Gyosho) of your choice based on your skill level. Zen-Go (禅語), or Zen phrases, are words and phrases that concisely express Zen truths. We will take a close look at the meaning of the selected Zen phrase, and instill the teaching into your mind to look deeper into your inner-self. You will learn not only the technical aspect of the calligraphy scripts, but also the unique characteristics of the historical masters who have shaped these beautiful scripts and writing styles, while embracing the philosophy of Zen that inspire the way of life. 

This class is designed for returning students, who have completed our Introduction to Shodō Course, or have previous experience with Japanese calligraphy.

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Dates:
MARCH SESSION　弥生の会
Sunday, March 22, 2026 11AM - 1PM
『春風接人』

APRIL SESSION　卯月の会
Sunday, April 12, 2026 11AM - 1PM
『和敬清寂』

Location: Atelier Towa 
Capacity: 8 participants

 

DATE March 22 11am-1pm
LEVEL & LANGUAGE

Designed for those who wish to deepen their practice, this workshop accommodates returning students who have completed our Introduction to Shodō Course, adult beginners, and intermediate practitioners with prior experience in Japanese calligraphy. All lectures are taught in English and Japanese.

HANDOUTS & TEXTBOOKS

A new set of printed handouts, including the teacher's model work, will be provided at the session. Attend every month, and you will have an archive of the inspirational zen phrases by the end of the year. 

SUPPLIES & MATERIALS

Please bring your own Japanese calligraphy tools to each session. If you need equipment, you may purchase a high-quality calligraphy set directly from us. Supplemental supplies, including paper and sumi ink, are also available for purchase at the atelier for your convenience.

CANCELLATION & NO-SHOWS

We kindly inform you that all workshop registrations are final sale, and we are unable to offer refunds for no-shows. If you cannot attend, we are happy to provide your session handouts and materials by appointment so you can continue your practice at home.

Our Program

MONTHLY SESSIONS
We meet once a month in the Spring and Autumn seasons to introduce a new Zen phrase, accompanied by a lecture on the scripts and a demonstration of brushwork techniques. During each session, you will receive personalized critiques from the instructor to guide your progress. For the remainder of the month, you are encouraged to practice at home and work toward a final signed piece. Consistent practice is the key to mastering this art!

ATTIRE
Participants will be seated on seiza pillows on tatami flooring. Please come dressed in comfortable clothing suitable for floor seating.

COMMUNITY
As part of our Returning Student community, you will enjoy connecting with your peers, exclusive access to events and field trips, and the opportunity to showcase your best work in our year-end student exhibition. These experiences are designed to offer a deeper immersion into the profound world of Shodo.

Aoi Yamaguchi

About the Instructor

Aoi Yamaguchi

Japanese Calligrapher & Artist

Born and raised in Hokkaido, Japan, Aoi Yamaguchi has been trained to master the basics of calligraphy by learning under the Master Zuiho Sato since at the age of 6, and is a recipient of numerous awards. she has performed and exhibited her works in many galleries, museums, universities and festivals in the United States, across Europe, and Japan. Her works show her exploration in juxtaposing the traditional Eastern classics and her contemporary artistic expressions, as well as her unique ambition of transforming two-dimensional art of Japanese Calligraphy into the art of physical expression through performances. Currently residing in Venice, California, Yamaguchi continues her work on her conceptual calligraphy installations, exhibitions, and performances as she continues to push the boundaries of traditional Eastern classics and contemporary artistic expression.

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