All Hokkaido Staff Adventures- Keiko does etegami!

The All Hokkaido staff loves to travel all over Hokkaido- and we want you to see where we’re going and what’s going on! Maybe you will find some inspiration for your trip here. This time Keiko goes to etegami class!

“Is this good enough?”

This is a thought I often have when making something, but it’s something I try to avoid when I do etegami.

When you think of writing with a brush and ink in Japan, many people probably think of calligraphy. However, “etegami” (literally “painted” or “picture” letters) drawn with a brush and ink are becoming popular in Japan now.

Imagine it:

The pleasant aroma of the ink as you grind it and it is added to the inkstone gets you into the mood to paint.

You pick a subject such as a flower or small item, feel the material, and think about the image you want to paint clearly in your mind.

There is no rough draft, and the most nerve-wracking moment is when you first place your brush on the postcard.

After that, you concentrate and draw what is in front of you. Gradually the lines will shift- you may lose track of which lines you are drawing, or you may get lost.

But there is no need to worry! After drawing your lines you add color with a brush and writing a message, it is amazing! You have completed a work of art with unique character.

Then, you stamp your own personal vermilion seal, and the picture have drawn is brought together into a wonderful work of art that is one of a kind in the world.

Even if you think you aren’t good at drawing or are not artistic, you’ll be surprised by your talent with etegami. Many people end up framing and keeping their first drawing.

For the rest- attach a stamp and send it to a friend or family member. I’m sure the recipient will be delighted!

If you are interested in trying out etegami, send us a message! We can arrange etegami classes in multiple locations throughout Sapporo.