Shodō Courses with Lanka
Japanese Calligraphy Lessons at JACCU
If the art and history of Japanese calligraphy interests you, then you are at the right place.
Lanka Abe is giving Shodō lessons in JACCU.
Shodō Courses in Utrecht
The lessons are about learning how to draw characters efficiently. Lanka’s lessons intend to show how you can express your own artistry through Shodō.
The course starts with the basics; knowledge of Japanese calligraphy tools, proper use of tools, posture, and attitude. Lanka will teach you basic brushstrokes that are easy for beginners, so you do not need any prior experience or knowledge of the Japanese language.
Moreover, Lanka shows how to draw characters by using seasonal terms from the Japanese calendar, and a variety of seasonal greetings in Japan. Participants can also learn how to enjoy the seasons every month. These lessons also apply meditative methods that facilitate an inner peace.
Contact Lanka to sign up for her lessons!
About Shodō
Japanese calligraphy can be translated into two forms: Shodō (書道) and Shūji (習字). The practice of Shūji focuses on neat handwriting, balanced composition and equal sized characters. Shodō, however, is an artistic form of handwriting that focuses on individuality and expression.
The term Shodō translates to ‘the way of writing,’ and it originated in China during the Tang Dynasty. The kanji character for Sho (書) translates to the verb ‘to write,’ and Dō (道) means ‘the path’ or ‘the way.’ During the Asuka Period, this calligraphy practice was brought to Japan. Originally, it was introduced into the educational curriculum for families that came from nobility. With time, however, it evolved into an art form that is admired and practised by all.
There are different forms of writing styles which include Kaisho (square style), Gyosho (semi-cursive), and Sosho (cursive). Another important element in Shodō is the choice of paper. Many types are used, but the most common type is ‘hanshi.’
Course Details
Dates: The first and third Thursday of every month. Here are the current dates for 2023. Future dates will soon be announced!
- April 6
- April 20
- May 4
- May 18
- June 1
- June 15
Duration: 90 minutes (18:30 – 20:00)
Location: Van Starkenborghhof 62, 3527HB UTRECHT
Pricing:
- The introductory lesson €38
- Regular lessons €34
- 18 and younger 21% discount
Disclaimer: Lanka provides all beginners with a thorough introduction to the art of Shodō. If you are a beginner, please specify when you sign up.
- All necessary tools are provided.
- The course instruction is in English.
Contact Lanka to sign up for her lessons!
“Lanka believes that everyone has their own aesthetics, which should be diverse and not compared to others. Through her lesson, she introduces and encourages you to explore your own aesthetics in forms and manners. The goal of the lesson is not only learning how to draw characters beautifully but also enjoying the journey to find your own way of expression. You can also apply her lesson to your meditative approach or to create inner peace.”
Lanka Calligraphy
Lanka Abe is a professional Japanese calligrapher based in Den Haag. She has been giving workshops as well as dynamic performances for many years.
Lanka was born in Hokkaido, the northernmost region of Japan. She studied Shūji from 7 to 13 years old. In 2012, she started to study Shodō at the Japanese calligraphy institute. After two years, she obtained a master’s level, and then she continued learning Japanese calligraphy through a postgraduate course for 4 more years. During her studies at the institute, Lanka’s works have previously been shown at public exhibitions. As well, she previously won awards for her projects in Japanese calligraphy.
Lanka moved to the Netherlands in 2018. She works on her own artistic expressions and commissioned works in Japanese calligraphy.
In February 2022, she was invited by JACCU to give a Shodō workshop and a live performance during the Manga and Japanese culture week in Bibliotheek Utrecht. The calligraphy works that emerged as a result of the performance were exhibited on the 2nd floor of the Neude library, on the exhibition wall.
Follow Lanka Calligraphy to get inspired!
Website: lankacalligraphy.nl (Coming soon)
Instagram: lanka_jp_calligraphy
Facebook: lanka_abe
