Japanese Calligraphy Workshops
Gyokubai Studio offers monthly workshops for any experience level - let’s begin your Japanese Calligraphy journey together.
In each 2 hour workshop, we cover
Introduction to traditional Japanese Calligraphy tools
Demo of Basic Brush Stroke Techniques
Overview of Japanese Alphabets and “Kanji” Characters
Then we will practice various types of characters and you will make your own personal Shodo work to take home!
Meet Your Shodo Teacher, Shihan Naoko Mauger
My name is Naoko Mauger. I moved from my hometown Fukuoka, Japan to Guernsey with my husband 15 years ago. I was 6 years old when I first came across Japanese calligraphy. 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.
In the modern world, we can often easily erase our mistakes. But calligraphy requires us to learn from them instead.
Join us for the next workshop!
You will learn about Japanese calligraphy tools, basic brush strokes, Japanese alphabets and “Kanji” characters. Then we will practice various types of characters and you will make your own Shodo work.
Browse and book below or email gyokubai33@gmail.com.
“I really enjoyed the introduction to Japanese calligraphy.
Naoko is a supportive, encouraging and patient teacher who clearly explained the methods we needed to use. It was great to learn to write a few characters by the end of the short session and I am looking forward to joining her again for future workshops!”
- Workshop Attendee, February 2024
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.
Get In Touch
If you have any questions or would like to enquire about a session other than the ones available here, get in touch via the form here or email gyokubai33@gmail.com and I’ll be happy to help.