Cultural Demonstration: Calligraphy by Kihachiro Nishiura

Japanese calligraphy, also known as Shodō (書道 ) which translates to “the way of writing,” has been practiced in Japan since the 6th century. Shodō specifically refers to the writing of kanji and kana characters using a bamboo brush (fude) dipped in liquid ink (sumi) to write on washi paper. Composition, placement, the shading of the ink, and technique are all indicators of skill in shodō. Artist Kihachiro Nishiura will first demonstrate various historical styles of calligraphy in chronological order. Next, he will then give a demonstration of large-scale calligraphy. After the presentation, Nishirua will answer questions and draw requested characters for participants. Included with garden admission.