Hi, my name is Haruna. I’m from Japan, and I came here two months ago.
I taught Japanese calligraphy for a school activity class at Lexis Byron.
I love Japanese calligraphy because it helps me clear my mind and focus.
I enjoy creating different kinds of expressions using brushes and improving my skills.
Japanese calligraphy reflects both the practicality and beauty of Japan. It has always been an important value and is respected in Japanese culture.
The beautiful words of Japanese calligraphy reflect scenes and emotions. The use of space through a sense of balance, the depth that arises from the fusion of ink and paper, and the expression of the artist’s personality are all shown in the work. Although the work is two-dimensional, we can experience it as if it were three-dimensional.
In Japan, students begin learning brush writing in Year 3 of primary school. We learn about the basic tools, the correct posture, and how to hold and use the brush. This was also when I had my first experience with Japanese calligraphy.
I started taking calligraphy lessons, and I have been learning it ever since.
Later, I began studying Japanese calligraphy in more depth at university. I took classes and seminars led by a professor specialising in calligraphy education and kanji culture, and I joined the university Japanese calligraphy club.
I studied both the practical skills and the theory behind the art. I also worked as a part-time instructor teaching Japanese calligraphy classes.
I taught children and teenagers. I enjoyed teaching, and I always tried to make the lessons enjoyable for them.
I taught this class here at school because I wanted to give others the opportunity to experience Japanese calligraphy and share Japanese culture with them.
Before the class, I prepared all the necessary tools: brushes, black ink, paper, ink stones, mats, and paperweights. Some of the tools were sent from Japan.
I also prepared sample sheets for practising basic brush strokes. I chose four simple kanji which allowed students to learn fundamental techniques and meanings. I also created sample works of each student’s name in Japanese, using kanji with similar sounds and giving each one a meaningful interpretation.
I also made the seal using sealing paste. Normally, I put a seal with my name on my work. However, since it was difficult to create individual seals for each student, I chose the ocean character, inspired by Byron Bay.
On the day of the calligraphy lesson, my friends helped me. The class went as follows: first, I introduced the tools and explained how to use them. Next, the students practised basic brush strokes by tracing the sample sheets. Then, they wrote their own names in Japanese.
Finally, they stamped their work with the seal to complete it.
During the activity, many students were surprised by how difficult it was to control the brush, and they really enjoyed the experience.
I enjoyed sharing my culture with them and seeing their reactions. How they felt about it and how they approached it. I am very happy to have had the opportunity to connect with people through Japanese calligraphy.
Not studying with us yet, but would like to?
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