We brushed the two kanji characters in the inspiring zen phrase Dōtoku 道得 (lterally way/express ; grasp/pick up/able to) which can be translated as expressing the way, expressing truth, or picking up the way. Blair discussed their Zen meanings and connection to calligraphic expression in more detail, with some related poetry from Zen master Dōgen Zenji.
We brushed the kanji together in three styles (kaisho, gyōshō, sōsho), discovering the rhythm of the stokes and relationships between the styles. We also found inspiration from Chinese calligrapher Chiei copying his styles. One of the participants kindly introduced a book by respected calligrapher and zen monk Kazuaki Tanahashi ‘Delight in One Thousand Characters’ about Chiei’s Senjimon Thousand Character Classic (which we have worked from in our group previously).
Thanks to everyone for taking part and those who shared work 😀
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