-SHO- Calligraphy is an art form practiced for over three thousand years. Studying calligraphy is key to an understanding of Japanese culture. Not merely an exercise in proper penmanship, it is a fine art and meditation. It is the combination of the skill and imagination of the person who has concentrated on the combinations of form, brushwork, beauty of expression, and intuition through practice. Western calligraphy stresses a plain style devoid of expression. Japanese calligraphy, or Sho, attempts to bring words to life, endowing them with style and personality. Sho is quickly rendered, so the uninitiated cannot appreciate the level of mastery involved. Each letter must be executed perfectly with grace, on the first pass, allowing no later corrections. Here are qualities to look for : Lines are firm yet agile Arced lines meander serpentine Variety of line width and uniform color intensity Natural balance in the characters' style and composition Rhythm to the piece, vibrating like soft waves upon the shore   LOOK FOR MORE TO COME Upanishads Part 1  and II Sanskrit Zodiac-I  and II   Vedic Links-I   and II   Meditation Center What's New   main links   photos   messages   home