DŌ: The Path of Shoko Kanazawa

More than just Japanese calligraphy, Shodō is a poetic and philosophical expression that is extremely well-known and popular in Japan. The exhibition showcases works by Shoko Kanazawa, who uses and updates ancient techniques and knowledge, bringing their concepts into the contemporary world.  

This practice aims to channel emotions through writing and is an art and discipline taught to Japanese children during primary education. It is practiced with both ideographic characters—kanji—and phonetic ones—hiragana and katakana. Calligraphy is known for requiring high precision from the calligrapher; each kanji character must be written in a specific stroke order, thereby increasing the discipline required of those who practice this art.

The freedom of each artist in this gestural interpretation is what determines their individual style.  

Written using sumi (black ink) and various brushes on Japanese paper, the art of calligraphy is considered a metaphor for life itself. Thus, strong brushstrokes alternate with more delicate ones, producing different effects depending on the speed, rhythm, pressure on the paper, the interval between strokes, and the material used.  

Press play to better understand the concept behind the exhibition:  

Filled with meanings, the works selected for the exhibition value chance, empty spaces, and the expressiveness of the strokes. The words and expressions chosen by the artist are not random, as they carry poetic and subjective concepts, with hopeful and positive messages, and stand out with the intent of bringing forth the essence of Japanese culture.

An artist with Down syndrome, Kanazawa-san has always been inspired and encouraged by her mother, and had her first exhibition at the age of 20. In honor of her artistic work, she was named one of the official artists of the Tokyo Olympics and is an exemplary figure in the fight for the rights of people with disabilities, redefining Shodō and attracting more and more young people to learn this traditional art, while inspiring others like her to express themselves through their creativity.

More about Shoko Kanazawa  

Born in 1985 in Tokyo, Shoko Kanazawa began studying calligraphy at the age of 5 with her mother, who taught Shodō to children. Over time, she began to stand out, and her work gained recognition.

In 2005, Shoko Kanazawa held her first solo exhibition at the age of 20, called "The World of Calligraphy," marking a significant point in her career and contributing greatly to the promotion of her work throughout Japan. Since then, she has exhibited her works in well-known Japanese temples such as Kenchōji (Kamakura), Kenninji (Kyoto), and Tōdaiji (Nara). Internationally, she has exhibited in countries such as the United States, the Czech Republic, and Singapore.