Shodō is the traditional Japanese art of calligraphy, where artists use brush and ink to create beautiful characters. This practice emphasizes the beauty of each stroke and the flow of the brush, making it both a visual and meditative experience. The characters often represent words or concepts, and the way they are written can convey emotions and feelings. In shodō, the choice of materials is important. Artists typically use a special brush, called a fude, and sumi ink, which is made from soot. The paper, known as washi, is also carefully selected for its texture and absorbency. Through shodō, practitioners connect with their culture and express their creativity.