DHAKA, May 18, 2024 (BSS) - Japanese embassy, Dhaka and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) organized "Shodo Workshop - The Art of Japanese Calligraphy" at the National Art Gallery No.03 at the BSA here today.

Japan envoy Iwama Kiminori, his wife and BSA Director Syeda Mahbuba Karim Mini spoke, among the others, at the workshop, a Japan embassy press release.

The workshop was conducted by a Japanese calligraphy artist Satoko Azuma.

 She gave a lecture on the philosophy of Japanese calligraphy and demonstrated the art with a giant brush.
 
Ambassador Iwama hoped that the Shodo Workshop would effectively promote cultural exchange. "I believe the cultural exchange between Japan and Bangladesh will be a very effective instrument in strengthening our existing bilateral relations", he added. 

He said Shodo literally means 'the way of writing', and it requires diverse techniques accompanied by a flow of brush and ink, essentially with an inner spiritual concentration.

The envoy said, "It is one of the most highly regarded, and profoundly traditional art forms in Japan, having been developed and practised since the 5th century".

Bangladeshi and Japanese children, students, dignitaries, and other participants had the opportunity to experience Japanese calligraphy under the guidance of Azuma. 

The works will be displayed on the wall of the gallery and the calligraphy exhibition will remain open at the same venue until May 25.