Meet Your Shodo Teacher, Shihan Naoko Mauger
Welcome to Gyokubai Studio and thank you for visiting!
My name is Naoko Mauger. I moved from my hometown Fukuoka, Japan to Guernsey with my husband 15 years ago. We now have three beautiful daughters, a lovely rabbit and two guinea pigs - We are big family.
I was 6 years old when I first came across Japanese calligraphy. I had just started primary school and my best friend was going to classes after school. That’s how my lifelong love of Japanese calligraphy began.
Since then I have dedicated my time to learning this traditional art form, achieved the rank of Shihan, or Master and was appointed as “Nihon Shuji Ambassador” in 2024. I have taught Japanese language, culture and calligraphy in both the UK and Guernsey and love sharing my passion and knowledge with people locally and beyond.
The Power of Shodo:
More Than an Art Form
In the modern world, we can often easily erase our mistakes. But calligraphy requires us to learn from them instead.
In the practice, we exercise mindfulness and channel our emotions into the brush strokes. No two works are the same. Through practicing calligraphy we can move closer to ourselves and learn to be truly present in the moment.
If you are interested in learning something new, practicing mindfulness and improving your concentration please join one of our regular workshops or contact me for a private session - perfect for parties and corporate events.
Begin Your Shodo Journey Today:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Each workshop is an introduction to Shodo - the traditional art of Japanese calligraphy. You’ll learn how to hold and load the brush, practise basic strokes and explore Japanese characters before creating your own finished piece to take home.
The workshop is a relaxed and mindful pace, in keeping with the “Healing Shodo” approach.
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None at all. My workshops are designed for complete beginners and most guests have never held a calligraphy brush before. Shodo is less about artistic talent and more about focus, breathing and being present in the moment. These skills come with practice!
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All materials are provided - brush, ink, ink stone, quality practice paper and mount for your final piece. You can simply turn up and take part.
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Upcoming public workshops are listed here. For private sessions, group bookings or any other queries, email me directly at gyokubai33@gmail.com
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New dates are added regularly! Follow our updates on Facebook or instagram to be the first to hear, or email us and at gyokubai33@gmail.com and we’ll try to arrange something that suits you.
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Just yourself! All materials are supplied. I also recommend you wear something you don’t mind getting a little ink on, just in case.
If you have your own Japanese calligraphy kit already, which you’d like to use, please let me know as I offer a discounted rate for those providing their own equipment.
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Workshops run in both Guernsey and Jersey, and I also offer private and community events across the islands. Check the current listings for venue of each date or get in touch to enquire about an alternative or private session.
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Many events, such as museum drop-in sessions, are family friendly. Unless otherwise specified, my workshops are adult only - please check the age guidance on the individual listing or ask when booking if you’re unsure.
I also offer complimentary school visits. Find out more about those here.
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Absolutely - private individual or group sessions can be arranged. Find out more here and simply get in touch to discuss dates, group size and what you’d like to focus on.
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Yes! Shodo works so well as a mindful, hands-on team activity for your team. If you’d like to arrange a session for your workplace or organisation, please reach out via email or the fo rm below with your group size and preferred dates.