PRESIDENT Online recently published an article about corruption in the calligraphy world in Japan.
The discussion revolves around the persistent issue of corruption in the judging of the "Nitten" (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition), a prestigious event in Japan, particularly within its calligraphy section. It reveals that winning an award in this arena often requires under the table financial transactions rather than merit.
And with this, there's a looming concern that calligraphy, and to some extent other Japanese art fields, could become suffocating and resistant to new ideas and creativity if not addressed truthfully.
Having witnessed such dynamics firsthand, the corruption within the Nitten didn't come as a surprise. To clinch an award, affiliation with a prominent calligraphy school, mentorship under a politically influential teacher, dedication to this teacher, adherence to their directives, and substantial financial investment are prerequisites. Such a system leaves little room for the growth and evolution of calligraphy. The lack of significant development in the Nitten over the past two decades is testament to this stagnation.
My own journey in calligraphy, taught by my grandmother and devoid of formal schooling or affiliations, has sometimes felt like an impostor complex. Initially hesitant to identify as a "calligrapher" when I began creating art, I've come to see my outsider status as an asset. It grants me the freedom to explore and create without the constraints and corruption that bind others. My aim is to continue producing works that resonate with me, leveraging my independent stance without any sense of guilt.
My calligraphy called "I am my own lord throughout heaven and earth" is available on the webshop!
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