On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, representatives from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences participated in a calligraphy workshop as part of the International Association for Asian Studies (AAS) in Asia 2024 conference. The representatives included Maulita Shinta Maharani and Aulia Muchtarom. The workshop took place in the atrium of Building B of the Faculty of Philosophy at UGM, Yogyakarta, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM WIB.
The event began with a round table discussion featuring calligraphy experts from various cultures, including Islamic, Javanese, Chinese, and Korean calligraphy. This discussion provided deep insights into the history, techniques, and philosophies behind each type of calligraphy, enriching the participants’ understanding of calligraphy art from different cultural perspectives.
Following the discussion session, participants enjoyed a communal lunch, which served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships and share experiences among participants from diverse cultural backgrounds. The event then continued with a hands-on calligraphy practice session, where participants were divided into four classes based on their chosen type of calligraphy: Chinese, Islamic, Javanese, and Korean.
Each class was guided by expert instructors who provided direct mentorship to the participants. The participants were taught various basic to advanced techniques in creating calligraphy and understanding the philosophical meanings behind each stroke of ink. Through this activity, participants were encouraged to realize that calligraphy is not just beautiful writing but also a form of self-expression that requires heart and soul in its creation.
The workshop attracted participants from various countries, creating a diverse and enthusiastic learning environment. The participation of representatives from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM in this event demonstrated their commitment to fostering international relationships and enriching cultural understanding through the art of calligraphy.
The event concluded with a group photo session and a coffee break, where participants had the chance to converse informally and strengthen social networks. This calligraphy workshop not only provided technical and artistic knowledge but also introduced participants to the profound philosophies behind each calligraphy stroke, teaching that art should be done with the heart.
