Calligraphy - Decorate a Japanese Paper Fan

Course intent

Learn how to design and decorate an elegant Japanese ‘uchiwa’ paper fan. You will learn about the beautiful art of brush calligraphy in a peaceful setting and will become familiar with the basic principles of writing Japanese using traditional Japanese materials of a brush, ink and Japanese paper and applying this lettering and design to your paper fan. You will enjoy the peace and calm of this class and enjoy the well-being benefits gained through working in a friendly, creative learning environment

What will we cover?

• How to use traditional Japanese materials of brush, ink and Japanese paper

• The basic principles of writing Japanese and how to create your first brush strokes
• How to build on these first steps to create some lovely Japanese characters on a traditional Japanese fan.
• Japanese Kanji and their meaning in English
• Design and composition
• Working in a peaceful and meditative way
• Safeguarding, Prevent and British Values

There will be demonstrations, instruction, one-to-one tutorial guidance, group discussions and critiques

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

All Abilities: Anyone interested in working in a meditative and peaceful way. Also if you are interested in Japanese art, design, aesthetic and culture – no knowledge of the language is necessary as Kanji are ideograms, so each one has its own meaning and corresponds to a word. The tutor is a Japanese speaker and will guide you through the steps needed to write and understand what you have written in Japanese.

As our courses are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

Materials of a brush (on loan), ink and a beautiful Japanese (Uchiwa) fan will be supplied, however you will need

• some extra paper to practice on; absorbent paper is best such as newspaper or sugar paper.
• Please wear dark colours, old clothes or wear an apron as occasionally ink can spill or spread.

Your tutor can advise you where to buy your own materials to continue Japanese brush and Ink Calligraphy at home

What can I do when I finish the course?

Further courses are available in Japanese Calligraphy and the tutor can guide you to learn more characters and cursive scripts. Japanese Language courses are also available with Surrey Adult Learning. We also offer other calligraphy longer courses and workshops.

Additional information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class. Surrey Adult Learning values and supports equality and diversity by promoting fairness and respect at all times

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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