Yoko Takenami

Yoko started Japanese calligraphy at the age of seven and obtained 'shihan', certificate from Zenshogei in Japan to teach in 1990. She published her book 'Simple Art of Japanese Calligraphy' in 2004 and holds workshops and demonstrations in various occasions, such as Arts in Action, Tokyo City Promotion in London, City of London Festival and other private institutions.

Yoko is also teaching short courses at the West Dean London Bloomsbury campus. (Please see the link in the Short Courses toolbar on the website)

Describe your approach to teaching.

My approach is to make sure that everyone feels comfortable and well taken care of.

What inspires your own work?

The movement of the brush is very dynamic. It requires high level of concentration to control the movement of the brush. This concentration and the infinitive possibility of the brush work which excites me.