Kakejiku - Japanese Hanging Scroll / 掛け軸 "和敬清寂"
"和敬清寂" - Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquillity
"和敬清寂" is a phrase in kanji that is used in Japanese, and it literally translates to "Harmony, Respect, Purity, and Tranquillity." It is a traditional Japanese aesthetic ideal that values balance, serenity, and harmonious coexistence with the environment. The concept is rooted in Zen Buddhism, which emphasises inner peace, mindfulness, and the idea of living in harmony with nature.
What is the occasion for using it?
In Japan, the phrase "和敬清寂" is often used in reference to traditional Japanese art, architecture, and gardens, which are designed to evoke a sense of calm and balance. It is written in calligraphy and displayed in homes, offices, and tea ceremonies. It is meant to be a peaceful and harmonious event that brings participants closer to nature and to each other.
Our Artisan - Youna Matsushita
Youna Matsushita is a talented and unique free-style Japanese calligrapher who has found her own creative voice through her passion for the art form.
Raised in the rural countryside of Yamaguchi Prefecture and spending her childhood on a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, Youna developed a love for nature and the great outdoors. Her introduction to calligraphy came from a friend and was not a formal class, allowing her to express herself freely and openly with the brush.
Her calligraphy is characterised by bold, dynamic brush strokes, a departure from traditional rules and conventions, delicate lines, and a captivating beauty that radiates from each character she writes.
Her background, including her grandfather's painting and her career in architecture, has given her a unique perspective and artistic vision that shines through in her work.
Today, Youna continues to write every day and expresses her love of nature and the sounds around her through her calligraphy.
■ Size: 112.5 cm x 31 cm
■ Only one available (exclusive)
■ Hand-written by Youna Matsushita, free-style Japanese calligrapher