Shodo

"More than a primer on shodo, this book gives a thorough discussion of the practice of calligraphy as well as insight into the mindset and understanding required for writing zengo. Therefore, it should be seen as fitting into a long line of excellent publications that bring the often baffling teachings of Zen to a wide English-speaking audience." -Janice Katz, Ph. D., Roger L.Weston Associate Curator of Japanese Art, Art Institute of Chicago
"This book is a gift for the mind and the eyes. Thoughtful commentary provokes an ongoing consideration of the meanings of the Zen phrases, while the brilliant inclusion of calligraphic how-to educates the eyes on how to follow the lines of ink in the original free-flowing gestures of the brush. I know I will return to this book again and again." -Christy A. Bartlett, Director, Urasenke Foundation San Francisco
"An extraordinary book! Art and wisdom poised on the tip of a brush." -Lee Gurga, Editor, Modern Haiku Press
"This book SHODO - The Quiet Art of Japanese Zen Calligraphy - can be enjoyed two ways. One is to start and to practice Calligraphy, and two is as an introduction to Zen philosophy. Oh, and for those who are interested in both." -Iromegane.com blog
"When complimented by an understanding of the literal, poetic, and philosophical meaning of the words, looking at Japanese calligraphy can be an exciting aesthetic and intellectual experience. It is with this goal in mind, of unlocking meaning and relevance to the non-Japanese speaker, that Shozo Sato presents his latest publication Shodo: The Quiet Art of Japanese Zen Calligraphy." -Deborah Clearwaters, Director of Education and Interpretation, Asian Art Museum San Francisco
"Both Zen Buddhism and the art of calligraphy can seem impenetrable to newcomers. Even the nuances of how to hold a brush can form an insurmountable obstacle without proper training. However, Shozo Sato's Shodo, The Quiet Art of Japanese Zen Calligraphy synthesizes these challenging fields into an easily digestible and visually stunning volume...Shodo is a perfect coffee table book for those wanting to learn more about calligraphy, and dip their brushes into the world Zen." - Kyoto Journal