Japanese Ambassador hosts shodo calligraphy masterclass, lecture at Tbilisi school

The Georgian School in the capital city of Tbilisi this week hosted a demonstration and lecture on shodo, the Japanese calligraphy, delivered by the Japanese Ambassador Ishizuka Hideki, the diplomatic office said on Thursday.

The event focused on the concept of shuji,  a school of studying characters, highlighting the significance of the Japanese calligraphy as an art form and a means of self-expression, the Embassy added.

The Ambassador began the session by introducing the roots of shodo, emphasising its status as a National Intangible Cultural Property of Japan since 2021. He explained shodo was deeply intertwined with the Zen culture, “emphasising principles such as balance, beauty, and the fluidity of motion through traditional brush strokes and techniques”, the diplomatic representation noted.

Photo: Embassy of Japan

During the demonstration, Ishizuka also showcased his skill by writing the Japanese characters for ”snake” (乙巳), signifying the zodiac sign for the year 2025 according to the Sexagenary cycle. The demonstration was followed by 10 participating students recreating the characters under the diplomat’s guidance.

In addition to learning the characters,  the students had the opportunity to practice writing their own names in katakana, a component of the Japanese writing system.

Participants, including students and teachers, expressed their gratitude and enthusiasm for the event, “highlighting its educational value and the joy of learning about a cultural heritage”, the Embassy said.