Soshokai Organises Calligraphy Exhibition at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM

Soshokai is the name given by SGI President Ikeda to a group of calligraphy clubs organised by students and alumni members of Soka schools and Soka University of Japan to pursue the art of calligraphy. Its first overseas exhibition was held at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM from August 27 to September 4, 2011. This exhibition entitled "The Light of Hope – An Exhibition of Soshokai's Calligraphy Works and Paintings" was jointly organised by SGM and Soshokai of Japan, exhibiting 43 pieces of calligraphic works and paintings by 31 members.

Ribbon cutting

The founder-cum-adviser of Soshokai, Mr Taiseki Nambo, the Secretary-General of Soshokai, Mr Masanori Tani, the Vice-Secretary General of Soshokai, Mr Houzan Kanehara and other officials were also present at the opening ceremony. Other distinguished guests present included the Director-General of the National Art Gallery of Malaysia, Y.Bhg. Ambassador Dato' Mohd Yusof Ahmad; SGM General Director, Mr Choo Kong Fei; the adviser of the Calligraphy Society of Malaysia (CSM), Dato' Kee Yong Wee and the President of CSM, Mr Wang Ho.

In his speech during the opening ceremony, Dato' Mohd Yusof said that there should be a balanced development of traditional and modern artistic cultures. He said that Japan has achieved such balance and has become an example for nations to learn from. He also said that calligraphy and paintings are commonly used as communication tools. Although he could not read the characters, he could still appreciate the beauty of calligraphy. Finally, he hoped more of such exhibitions would be held to foster unity among Malaysians.

SGM General Director Choo Kong Fei, in his welcoming speech, said that Soshokai's first overseas exhibition at Wisma Kebudayaan SGM was an opportunity to promote cultural exchanges and friendship between Malaysia and Japan. He said that artistic culture was humankind's treasure of the heart and it was important for civil harmony.

The founder of Soshokai, Mr Taiseki Nambo, said that Soshokai carried out activities based on SGI President Ikeda's peace ideals and uses calligraphy to spread the message of peace.

Calligraphy demonstration	Guest viewing exhibits

Soshokai was established in 1988 to promote the art of calligraphy. Every two years since its inception, they have been holding exhibitions. Last year, they held the 10th exhibition – a joint exhibition with artists from Taiwan and China – in Tokyo. This year they had expanded their networking to Malaysia, hoping to arouse wider interest in this art form. After the opening ceremony, calligraphers from the two countries held calligraphic demonstrations.