Eiko came from Tokyo to Salmon Arm, B.C. in 1993. She worked for School District #83 as a Japanese Language Monitor. In high schools and elementary schools, she taught in Japanese classes or visiting classes for Japanese language or art classes. She taught not only language, but also gave opportunities to the students to experience Japanese arts and cultures: origami, tea ceremony, ikebana: flower arranging, kimono dressing, Japanese dance and Japanese calligraphy.
Japanese calligraphy is influenced by Chinese culture that has more than a 4000-year history. The participants learn the difference of three different kinds of Japanese characters in calligraphy class. Unlike Western calligraphy, Japanese calligraphy uses India ink with a brush on thin rice paper. The brushes are thicker than paint brushes, and the experience of Japanese calligraphy is rather more like drawing foreign designs than just writing letters.
At present Eiko teaches Japanese culture and language at the Okanagan Regional Library in person and remotely and privately. Also, she obtains Major’s degree in Counseling Psychology: Art Therapy and works for facilitating art therapy groups in School District #83.
Short Description of Japanese Calligraphy and Origami: Begin with explanation about the history and significance of calligraphy in the Japanese culture and the different styles of Japanese calligraphy. Also, participants will learn how to write their names in Japanese and enjoy creating oriental art works using Chinese ink with a brush.
Origami is the art of paper folding, which is associated with Japanese culture. The participants of all ages are able to enjoy making objects with origami paper.
