UCSC Recreation has openings in the following courses. To sign up, go to www.ucscrecreation.com.
Shodo Japanese Calligraphy
Thursday, November 15, 6:15 to 9:15 p.m.
Baytree Conference Center Room D
Cost is $15
Learn the basic fundamentals of Shodo, Japanese calligraphy, using traditional ink and brush. Shodo is a traditional art that is practiced by common people as well as Zen and Shinto priests, martial artists, and other types of artists. There's a saying in Japan, "A person's writing shows their character." Shodo teaches you how to meditate and express your inner strength in your art and life. In this workshop, you will start with the meditation of making ink, then continue on to learn basic strokes using a calligraphy brush.
Materials: Please bring old newspapers to practice on and the following supplies: large suzuri (ink-making stone), sumi (bar of dried ink), and fude (calligraphy brush).
Instructor Yoshihito Shibata has been practicing Shodo since he was 5 years old. He has studied at a Zen temple, while studying other traditional arts, and went to a school for calligraphy for 15 years. By the age of 14, he had already reached the level of "rokudan" (sixth degree) and had won prizes in several national competitions. He has taught classes locally over the years, but he does Shodo mostly to enhance his martial arts training.
Tango Workshop
Thursday, November 15, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Multipurpose Room, East Field House
Cost is $10
Come out and learn how to Tango in this evening workshop. Both singles and couples are welcome. To make sure everyone has a chance to learn how to lead and follow flexibly, there will be frequent rotations of partners in which everyone is urged to participate. At the end of class there will be a practice time when those who came with a partner can work together. Class members are encouraged to learn the nontraditional role (women as leaders, men as followers) if they wish. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move. Footwear should be lightweight and well-connected to your foot.
Instructor Mario Avila teaches at the Palomar Ballroom and has an undying love for Swing music and dancing, yet specializes in Latin Rhythm dances such as Salsa, Rumba, Cha Cha. and Bolero.
