Be mesmerized by the bold and powerful brushstrokes of Kanazawa Shōko, one of Japan’s most acclaimed young contemporary calligraphers, with a special talk and demonstration event at Japan House London.

Born with Down’s syndrome, Shōko began studying shodō, Japanese calligraphy, at the age of 5, taught by her mother and mentor Yasuko. She has since continued to refine her craft, achieving global renown.

Among her many accomplishments, Shōko has created official art posters for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and has held numerous solo exhibitions within Japan and worldwide.

She is particularly renowned for her large-scale performances of calligraphy in which she uses a huge brush and sumi ink to create dramatic works requiring full-body expression.

Guests to Japan House can enjoy a demonstration of Shōko’s signature large-scale calligraphy, followed by a talk by Shōko’s mother, discussing Shōko’s artistic development, creative philosophy and distinctive approach to her craft.

Booking Essential | Admission Free 

Booking Details

Please choose your preferred option and click on the button below to book your free ticket. 

Attend the event in The Hall at Japan House London 

Register to watch the online livestream on Zoom  

This talk is part of a series of events featuring Kanazawa Shōko and Kanazawa Yasuko organized by Japan House London in collaboration with Down’s Syndrome Association. A separate event takes place at the Langdon Down Centre in Teddington on Saturday 1 April 2023.