Michi Publishing

Secrets of the Brush: Life Lessons from the Art of Japanese Calligraphy is the first new book in years from award-winning author, artist, and sensei H. E. Davey. Mr. Davey is the author of The Japanese Way of the Artist, a widely admired how-to book that lets even beginners try Japanese calligraphy. An internationally acclaimed shodo calligrapher and ink painting expert, his new work covers the 20 years he studied under a venerated Japanese master, Kobara Ranseki, the late recipient of the Order of the Rising Sun. Expanding on the meditative emphasis of The Japanese Way of the Artist, Secrets of the Brush shifts away from technical instruction to focus on life altering aesthetic and spiritual principles.

It uses an innovative format mingling biography, autobiography, and Japanese art history, with shodo and meditation instruction. Secrets of the Brush explores Zen-like life lessons the author absorbed over two decades. Combining over 50 years of experience in Japanese arts with themes from old Asian texts, cult movies, punk rock, and more, H. E. Davey explains rarely understood Eastern principles that will positively change your life. These concepts increase skill in Asian arts, including calligraphy, painting, martial arts, tea ceremony, and meditation. Even fans of Western art can use this book to transform their craft.

It’s packed with incredible new artwork from one of the Western world’s leading exponents of shodo. Full-page illustrations and a comprehensive glossary complete this guide to life and an ancient Japanese art.

Secrets of the Brush is available on Amazon and at a bookstore near you in paperback and ebook formats.