The Japanese use two styles of writing at the same time: kanji - Chinese characters, which are ideograms (i.e., characters which symbolize ideas of things without saying their names) and kana - which are purely phonetic characters. This fascinating book introduces Japanese calligraphy and gives practical instruction showing the way these two styles of writing are combined.

The opening pages explore the history of Japanese calligraphy, and the materials - including the "four treasures" of calligraphy: brush, ink, stone and paper. They are followed by sections which show how to use the materials and how to develop your calligraphy skills. Writings include words, quotes and poems in kana, and a combination of kana and kanji. A final section contains a gallery of classic and contemporary works, showing how calligraphy can be used to create cards, wallhangings and works of art. This book will delight anyone interested in calligraphy, whatever their skill level. It contains clear, concise instructions , inspirational calligraphy, beautiful work and excellent ideas which can be developed into original and personal artworks.

Using step-by-step demonstrations and his own evocative and inspirational pictures, Cheng Yan shows you how to capture the beauty and freshness of this exquisite style of painting.

With enthusiasm and energy, he guides the artist through all the traditional techniques, illustrating how to create atmosphere and light in landscapes, focusing on trees, water, mountains, sky and clouds. He shows how to capture liveliness and movement in animals, birds, fish and insects, and he transforms flowers and plants into beautiful works of art skillfully showing how to master composition, inks, paints and traditional brushstrokes. Detail is as important as a spontaneous style; leaves, stems bamboo, feathers, scales and blossom are clearly depicted and Yan also explores texture, blending colors to define shapes and outlines. This invaluable guide captures the essence of Chinese painting, bringing together the fun of learning, the joy of creativity and the delight of discovery.

• Easy learning with clear step-by-step photographs
• Includes popular subjects: landscapes and flowers
• Author has a high profile, exhibits regularly
• Traditional painting and calligraphy techniques

A letter-by-letter introduction to the art of beautiful writing.