As the New Year approaches, I start to be aware that I have to change the year number on the dates of my calligraphies. I’ll be one of those people who’ll still write 2016 well into the middle of January. So I have to make a conscious effort to make sure I’m writing the correct year. I don’t always date my calligraphies in Japanese, but when I do, I like to use the traditional … [Read more...] about How to write the Japanese years
Articles
Can you practice Shodo left handed?
About 10% of the population is left handed. When I teach Shodo during my workshops I always ask first: “Is anyone left handed?”, before starting to explain the rules of writing or how to brush the basic strokes. They look at me a bit concerned. “Uh oh, is it going to be hard for me to do this because I’m left handed?” The answer is, unfortunately, yes. But not because you are … [Read more...] about Can you practice Shodo left handed?
5 things to consider when selling your calligraphy
I primary support Gohitsu Shodo Studio, financially, by selling my calligraphy. It’s my number one source of revenue; my two online courses closely follow second. However, I just recently stopped taking commissions and now sell my calligraphy strictly through my Online Shop. I only offer calligraphies with words that resonate with me. I actually find it extremely hard to sell … [Read more...] about 5 things to consider when selling your calligraphy
The Aikido Experience for New Potential Students
I’m back teaching Aikido regularly at Zenshinkan Dojo. In the last two classes I’ve taught a new potential student came to try out the class. We let new potential students step on the mat and try a class. Most people that show up at our doors (and possible any dojo’s doors) have already done some research on Aikido. Their decision to join the dojo is almost already made, … [Read more...] about The Aikido Experience for New Potential Students
It’s so easy
“You make it look so easy,” said a student at a recent workshop after I demonstrated how to brush the eight basic strokes. “It is,” I replied. After the demonstration I stopped by her table to check her work. She shook her head. “It’s really hard. It looks a lot easier when you do it.” “Oh, that’s easy!”, said a 7 year old kid when I demonstrated how to make banana spring … [Read more...] about It’s so easy