Japanese Calligraphy Workshop in Partnership with NHS Arts in Health

On Thursday 9 July, The Japan Society was pleased to deliver a Japanese calligraphy workshop led by acclaimed calligrapher Eiko Ishida in partnership with CNWL Arts in Health.

The session introduced participants to the art of Japanese calligraphy through a combination of live demonstrations and hands-on practice using traditional brushes and ink. Participants chose a kanji character from a selection of positive words, including 和 (harmony), 望 (hope), 幸 (happiness), 心 (heart), and 愛 (love), and learnt about the meaning and cultural significance of their chosen character before practising writing it themselves. They also learnt how to write their own names in katakana, giving them another opportunity to engage with the Japanese language.

At the end of the workshop, participants took home their finished calligraphy on a traditional shikishi board, along with a personalised name tag featuring their name written in katakana as a lasting memento of the experience.

Despite the exceptionally hot weather, participants remained engaged throughout the workshop and embraced the activity with enthusiasm. The atmosphere was welcoming and supportive, encouraging everyone to experiment and express themselves, and the session produced a wide range of thoughtful and individual calligraphy works.

The workshop offered an opportunity to slow down, focus, and connect through creativity while learning about Japanese culture. It also highlighted the value of arts activities in supporting wellbeing and bringing people together.

CNWL Arts in Health is a creative health service at Central & North West London NHS Trust using creative and cultural activities to support health, wellbeing, and social connection. 

We would like to thank Eiko Ishida and the team at the NHS Arts in Health Programme for making this enjoyable and inspiring event possible.