Shodo - Japanese Calligraphy

Reiko Matsumoto is the lead Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy) instructor at the Redlands Japanese Cultural Center. Her involvement is part of the center’s recent expansion into traditional arts.
• Role: Lead Instructor for the Shodo program.
• Specialization: She teaches traditional Japanese calligraphy, focusing on the fundamental techniques of fude (brush) and sumi (ink). Her curriculum covers various styles:
     • Kaisho: Formal, block-style writing.
     • Gyosho: Semi-cursive, “moving” style.
     • Soshu: Cursive “grass” style.
• Teaching Philosophy: Her classes often emphasize the concept of mushin (no-mind), a meditative state where the practitioner clears the mind to let the brush strokes flow naturally.
Instruction at Redlands Japanese Cultural Center
Reiko Matsumoto joined the center during its inaugural phase to help fulfill its mission of preserving Japanese American heritage in the Inland Empire.
• Classes: She conducts weekly sessions designed for all levels, from beginners learning stroke order to advanced students refining their artistic expression.
• Community Impact: Beyond technical skill, her instruction focuses on the cultural history of Kanji and the discipline required for traditional Japanese arts.

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