Welcome and Basic Strokes

Studying calligraphy is one way to realize how much we have to learn from the wisdom, aesthetics, and depths of our ancestors. In this time of rapid technological advancements, in taking up the brush we become humble and feel privileged to be part of an ancient, creative civilization. In this first lesson of the course, Kaz will explain the materials you need for practicing East Asian calligraphy and show you some basic, standard brush movements.

In this lesson, you will:

• Learn about the materials involved in East Asian calligraphy
• Practice preparing, holding, and moving the brush
• Practice a regular horizontal stroke and a gentle horizontal stroke
• Do a close study of the ideograph “Two”