Japanese Calligraphy Artist
Born in Kobe, Japan | Based in Chicago, Illinois
Born and raised in Kobe, Japan, Hekiun Oda (小田碧雲) began practicing calligraphy at age five under master
Goun Katsura. Kobe is known for its deep lineage of calligraphy masters, and Oda’s early training rooted him in
traditional shodo while inspiring a lifelong pursuit of artistic and spiritual expression. He moved to Chicago in
1990, continuing his studies and sharing Japanese calligraphy through exhibitions, performances, and
workshops.
In 2009, Oda founded the Oda Calligraphy Association to teach students and promote calligraphy as both art
and meditation. He has exhibited and performed at venues including the Japanese Culture Center of Chicago,
McHenry County College, and the Heritage Museum of Asian Art, and has collaborated with Yoshinojyo
Fujima, master of Fujima Ryu Japanese Classical Dance.
Bio
Artist Statement:
“Calligraphy is an art that cannot be written twice. Each stroke captures the meeting of life and nature —
delicate or powerful, fleeting or eternal. My work preserves the classical essence of ink on paper while
embracing innovation. True calligraphy unites image, heart, and spirit — an art of peace and
mindfulness.”
