Japanese calligraphy: an infinite UNIVERSE
"Japanese Calligraphy: An Infinite Universe" was a featured exhibition program held during the "Brooklyn + Japan Festival" in New York on April 13, 2025. The program showcased the works of three distinguished Japanese calligraphers—Hakko Ishitobi, Taisho Akahira, and Suikoku Yamanaka—through two formats: a captivating opening performance for the event’s fashion show and a gallery exhibition at Ossam Gallery.
Hakko Ishitobi, one of Japan’s most revered calligraphers, is known for a distinctive style that blends traditional elegance with contemporary dynamism. His expressive works, born from a free and flexible spirit, have shaped the direction of modern Japanese calligraphy for over half a century. In addition to his artistic practice, Ishitobi is dedicated to education, sharing the deep spirituality embedded in the act of writing. His educational work will soon begin in New York, offering a path toward mindfulness and inner harmony in a chaotic world.
This year’s festival also marked a milestone in cross-cultural collaboration, as Taisho University (Tokyo) launched its satellite campus in Brooklyn. As Masahiro Kashiwagi stated during the event, “By observing Japan from an international perspective, we hope to create a base for regional revitalization through cultural collaboration.” More than an exhibition, the festival was a declaration—an open invitation to build enduring creative and spiritual bridges between Japan and Brooklyn.
Supported by Taisho University
Photography: @ct_tsai
Exhibiting Calligraphers: Hakko Ishitobi, Taisho Akahira, Suikoku Yamanaka
Exhibition period Apr. 13 - 27, 2025
Hours Fri/Sat/Sun 1-6:30pm & by appointment
Location: Ossam gallery at J-Collabo, 300 7th Street, Brooklyn
Exhibition related events
Opening reception; Apr. 13, 5-6PM
Official drink sponsor: Brooklyn Kura
Calligrapher Profile
Hakko Ishitobi
Hakko Ishitobi, he is one of Japan’s most celebrated calligraphers. Known for his unique style called "Ishitobi-ryu", he blends the elegance of traditional Japanese calligraphy with a modern sensibility. Since being hailed a prodigy in his youth, he’s led the calligraphy world for over 50 years and continues to inspire generations of artists.
His works combine power, lightness, and deep spirituality — recognized both in Japan and internationally.
Beyond his own artistic practice, Mr. Ishitobi is also a passionate educator. Through correspondence courses and lectures, he’s helped thousands of students find joy in calligraphy. He often uses everyday words, poems, and haiku in his work, showing how beauty can be found in even the simplest language.
Taisho Akahira
Taisho Akahira, he is a leading figure in the Japanese calligraphy world and a professor emeritus at Taisho University. He has held many key positions in the field, such as Director of the Mainichi Shodo Exhibition and Chairman of the Teikokai Calligraphy Association.
He was recently awarded Japan’s prestigious Minister of Education Award for his expressive and balanced calligraphy. His work is known for its dynamic contrast — bold and delicate, deep and thoughtful — reflecting the true meaning of the words.
He also contributed a powerful piece for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics calligraphy exhibition, helping to share the spirit of Japanese culture with the world.
His graceful yet strong brushwork continues to inspire audiences and young calligraphers alike.
Suikoku Yamanaka
Suikoku Yamanaka, he is a well-known calligrapher who currently serves as a senior official for the Mainichi Calligraphy Association. He also plays a key role in several other major art organizations and teaches at Daito Bunka University.
His calligraphy stands out for its combination of tradition and modern flair. Words like “Path” or “Self-discipline” are expressed through bold, flowing strokes that give life to the deeper meaning behind the characters.
He has exhibited internationally and was also chosen to showcase his work at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic calligraphy event — a testament to his contribution to Japanese cultural arts.
Mr. Yamanaka’s work invites us to reflect and feel the spirit behind the brush.