SHODO
            (Calligraphy)

Originally, the art of writing Chinese characters was introduced to Japan (along with Buddhism), by Chinese priests who had traveled to Japan, as well as by Japanese who had traveled to China.  This explains why skill with calligraphy is legendary.  The Chinese writing system was appreciated and valued not only for its connections with Buddhist teachings, but also because it was a manifestation of the powerful, charismatic personalities of the priests (Sosnaski, 24) .  To artists, shodo is a way of expressing themselves, but to viewers and patrons, it is considered a fine art.  Judgments about one’s personality are usually viewed through his/her handwriting, and expressing one’s character and individuality through Japanese calligraphy is viewed as a demonstration of skill and refinement.  Interestingly, nearly all great Japanese calligraphers have been men.  Japanese diligently study calligraphy to develop their character as well as a sense of esthetics.  While a foreigner who studies Japanese calligraphy would probably e discouraged by the degree of difficulty of  making what are considered simple strokes, an expert can use large or small brushes in more than one style with great subtlety and distinction of diplomacy.
 
 
 
 
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