The Japan Society is pleased to host a shochu mimai (summer greeting cards) workshop with calligrapher, Yoko Takenami.

In summer in Japan, people send shochu mimai to show their concern for friends and relatives who may suffer in this hot and uncomfortable season. Shops sell cards with summer-themed pictures, such as goldfish, wind chimes, beach scenes and seashells. For many Japanese people, both new year’s greeting cards and summer greeting cards are important ways to keep in touch with friends and relatives that they may not see very often.

No experience is necessary for this workshop. You will discover different styles of Japanese writing, understand how to use a brush correctly and learn how to combine kanji and hiragana in an aesthetically pleasing way. This is a wonderful opportunity to start your journey into calligraphy guided by an experienced professional. At the end of the workshop you will be able to treat your friends and loved ones with your own summer greeting cards in calligraphy.

Yoko Takenami started her calligraphy studies at the age of seven. Educated in Japan and in Ohio, US, she qualified as a master of calligraphy in 1990. Yoko now lives in London and teaches calligraphy at various institutions such as British Library while also working as an interpreter. She regularly returns to Japan for inspiration for her calligraphy and tuition from her Teshinkai Master. Yoko is the author of The Simple Art of Japanese Calligraphy.

If you have any questions, please call the Japan Society office on 020 3075 1996 or email us at: events@japansociety.org.uk

Booking essential – Priority booking for members of The Japan Society and their guests
Members of The Japan Society and their family and friends: £20
Non-members: £25
All tools, equipment and materials will be provided on the day