Master, Shiro Aoyagi performed a demonstration at National Gallery of Victoria

 

Photos - J. Dunkerley Left: Master Aoyagi in action, Middle: 'Different places, the same sky', Right: 'A poem'

Master Shiro Aoyagi, one of the world's leading calligraphy artists, visited Melbourne on the 10th of March, 2008 to perform a live calligraphy demonstration in the National Gallery of Victoria's Great Hall which was proudly hosted by SUMIDO. Master Aoyagi, a professional calligraphy artist since becoming the youngest winner of Japan's fine arts award at age 25, currently sits on the board of calligraphers that appoints judges for the annual Mainichi Newspaper's national calligraphy competition, the largest of its kind in Japan. Approximately 200 onlookers were in attendance to watch Master Aoyagi perform his art, just as he has around the world in locations as Brazil and Hungary. The demonstration included explanations by Master Aoyagi and his accompanying students of calligraphy and its evolution over time and some of the tools and techniques used to create this ancient art. Speaking before the demonstration began, Consul General Hasegawa commented on the suitability of Melbourne to host a calligraphy demonstration considering Melbourne's renowned multiculturalism and the large numbers of people from Asian communities who are accustomed to Chinese characters.

Photo: Master Shiro Aoyagi, Susumu Hasegawa (Japanese Consul General), Junko Azukawa (SUMIDO director)

 

Shiro Aoyagi and Hokuriku Calligraphy Academy had an exhibition at KAZARI gallery











Accompanying the demonstation was an exhibition of around 120 selected works of senior artists from Mr Aoyagi's school, the Hokuriku Calligrapy Academy, at KAZARI collector in Prahran, Melbourne 11 - 25 March 2008. This exhibition represented the pinacle of skill in the art of Japanese calligraphy and was one of the best opportunities to experience the finest examples of modern Japanese calligraphy in Australia.






Photo(left): The opening night - Gwen Delves (President of Ikebana International Melbourne), Jo Maindonald (KAZARI Director), Shinya Iwata (Consul - Director of Japan Information and Cultural Centre), Master Shiro Aoyagi (from left)
Photo (Right): Shiro Aoyagi 'Youth' sumi ink on paper 100cm x 70cm