Samadhi 2011

Kazuaki Tanahashi made this calligraphic artwork, Samadhi, using ink on paper. The deep blue ink, applied with a brush, stands out against the white ground. It is applied with great speed to make each stroke, and the ink’s texture varies based on the pressure of the brush, giving it a quality that is both intentional and accidental. Tanahashi's work is not just about the image, but also the act of creation. Calligraphy is a skill that requires years of practice to master. The work involved is not just physical, but also mental and spiritual. In Japanese culture, calligraphy is a highly respected art form, seen as a way to cultivate inner peace and mindfulness. Tanahashi approaches the traditions of calligraphy with a modernist eye, emphasizing materiality and process. By understanding the cultural significance of calligraphy and the ways in which Tanahashi’s work builds on these traditions, we can fully appreciate the depth and complexity of this deceptively simple work.