Japanese master calligrapher opens first atelier on Saipan

“Shodo Shihan” Mitchi Matsuyama is introducing the art of Japanese calligraphy—called Shodo—to the CNMI with a new studio he calls the Japanese Calligraphic Atelier Izumo Works.

The calligraphy studio is located on the second floor of the ABC Store at Paseo de Marianas in Garapan.

Matsuyama expressed honor at being given the chance to offer the art of calligraphy to the CNMI community, saying the main reason for opening the atelier here is to enhance the relationship between Saipan and Japan.

Matsuyama said his new atelier is open to all individuals who want to enrich themselves by learning the art of calligraphy.

“This place has been deeply connected with the Japanese culture,” he said, adding that most of the CNMI man’amko could speak Japanese very fluently. “One day it came to me, maybe some [people on Saipan] would like to try the Shodo.”

Matsuyama said Shodo is not only an art but also an exercise for the mind. Shodo calligraphy, he said, is an excellent method to correct one’s handwriting and a proven method to achieve mental discipline and training for emotional stability.

“When you do calligraphy, you face a sheet of paper, which is pure white. That helps keep your mind at peace.”

Matsuyama said this method has been used to reach a Zen state. “Calligraphy requires concentration and stability of the mind. This is the reason why the art is now being taught and practiced around the world.”

Matsuyama comes from a long line of master calligraphers. He said he has been practicing the art for 40 years now, starting when he was just seven years old. He became a Shodo Shihan—a master calligrapher—at the age of 22, and began teaching in universities.

Izumo Works is now accepting students for trial sessions and membership. Matsuyama said anyone could try the art for an hour for only $25 each. He will be providing the materials for the trial sessions. Regular sessions for members are only $50 per month excluding materials. The sessions are held twice a week for an hour from Monday to Friday at 9am, 4pm and 7pm.

Matsuyama plans to expand the atelier to an art studio and retail shop where he will be displaying the artwork and selling some of them.

For more information, contact Shodo Shihan Mitchi Matsuyama at 285-0347 or e-mail him through matsuyama@izumoworks.com. [B][I](Marconi Calindas)[/I][/B]