Interview with Kayu
Teacher Kayu has been conveying the joy of writing to local children.
We asked her about how she started calligraphy and her future aspirations.
When did you start practicing calligraphy?
Kayu (honorific omitted)
Since elementary school.
I became interested when I saw my friends practicing and thought, "Oh, there's something like this." I started learning. The calligraphy school I attended at that time had no time restrictions, and I could write as many pieces as I wanted until I was satisfied.
Even when I made mistakes, I thought, "As long as I can write someday," which suited me. Writing repeatedly, I improved, and receiving awards gradually built my confidence.
Can you tell us about the journey from starting your school to where it is now?
Kayu
After attending the "Kansai Calligraphy School" in Hayashima Town, I initially started my school in Bizen City, where my family home is located.
When I moved to Kurashiki after getting married, I intended to stop teaching. Watching the teachers who had been running their schools for a long time made me anxious about whether I could continue.
However, from the new connections I made in Kurashiki, I was encouraged with, "If you're doing calligraphy, I want you to open a school," and I began to feel like I could try again.
What do you value in your school?
Kayu
Not just writing beautifully, but helping students to like their own handwriting.
Thanks to my encounter with my calligraphy teacher, I was able to continue enjoying calligraphy. Looking back, that teacher didn't interfere much and quietly watched as I wrote.
I think I was able to continue naturally because it felt good to be acknowledged with, "This is nice." Therefore, I don't want my school to be a place where children lose confidence.
I want children who think, "I'm not good at writing" or "I dislike my handwriting" to be able to enjoy writing. I would be happy if I could create that opportunity.
How do you cherish that feeling in your daily interactions?
Kayu
I value each individual's pace.
Rather than proceeding as the teacher says, I focus on allowing them to choose for themselves. Since there is not just one correct answer in calligraphy, I want to progress together while thinking.
Even during basic practice, if a student says, "I want to try writing this kanji," I try to respect that feeling as much as possible.
When they start something they genuinely want to do, they really seem to enjoy it.
You have also started programs for adults.
Kayu
I started a sutra copying group in 2026.
I have wanted to try this for a long time, and I want adults to enjoy writing as well.
The "Adult Calligraphy Club," which started in July, is held with an image similar to a club or circle. In the calligraphy club, I hope to not only practice calligraphy but also hold book clubs and create time for self-care together.
The sutra copying group is a "quiet" time to face oneself.
On the other hand, the calligraphy club is a "dynamic" time to enjoy chatting while writing.
I would be happy if participants could join in a way that suits them.
Can you share your future outlook?
Kayu
From now on, I would like to gradually increase morning activities for adults. Engaging in activities in the morning makes the whole day feel fulfilling. I would be happy if calligraphy could be a starting point for creating such time.
The sutra copying group will also celebrate its first anniversary in December. I think it would be interesting to plan an outing to a temple with everyone who has participated.
Additionally, I would like to challenge calligraphy performances. I have learned traditional calligraphy, so this is an unknown world for me, but I enjoy planning new things.
I approach challenges with the mindset that it's okay as long as it doesn't become a big deal if I fail.
I would be happy if more people see that and think, "I want to take a step forward too."
Conclusion
During the interview, I was very impressed by Teacher Kayu's expression as she happily introduced her students' works.
Before the interview, I had the image that a calligraphy school is a place where writing beautifully is the most important thing. However, after hearing her talk, I found that it was a warm school that focuses on helping each individual to like their own handwriting.
The school for children, as well as the sutra copying group and calligraphy club for adults, are expanding as places where people can enjoy their own time through calligraphy.
If you are interested in starting calligraphy or want to pick up a brush again after a long time, why not visit once?
Data on Kayu Calligraphy School
| Organization Name | Kayu Calligraphy School |
|---|---|
| Industry | Calligraphy School |
| Representative Name | Master: Kayu |
| Year Established | 2011 |
| Address | 999-25 Koshinden, Fukuda-cho, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | Please contact us via Instagram or official LINE. |
| Website | Kayu Calligraphy School Instagram |
