Bokuseki: Japanese Zen Calligraphy

Japanese Zen Calligraphy is a distinct practice from learning how to brush Japanese characters. Known as Bokuseki, Japanese Zen Calligraphy treats its calligraphy practice as traces of one’s spirit. Through the laying down of ink on paper, one’s spirit makes a mark as the tension of one’s body, and, movement of breath dance across the paper. Bokuseki brushwork lessons view centeredness and breathwork is as intrinsic to the practice. Lessons typcially focus on one or two characters brushed in a large format.

Sensei Rubin and Perry were introduced to Zen brushwork by Sensei John Stevens and Kazuaki Tanahashi. Having been given permisson to offer practice session, they continue their study under these sensei who are annual guest instructors at Aiko Institute.

Rubin and Perry have begun to offer some instruction in brushwork through practice groups at Aiko Institute. Every first Sunday of the month, these groups meets to practice:

Introduction to Japanese Zen Calligraphy This group is the beginner group. Lessons begin with how to hold the brush, how to sit ,and how to breath. Basic strokes in Japanese Zen Calligraphy are presented along with the practice of one or two characters.

Different Strokes Society
This group consists of the advanced members of the brushwork group. This group is by-invitation-only.