About this Event
Live Calligraphy Performance, Artist Talk & Demonstration with Hekiun Oda
Sunday, December 6, 2026 | 2:00–3:00 PM
Free with RSVP
Join Japanese calligraphy artist Hekiun Oda for a special live program presented in conjunction with his solo exhibition, The Art of Being Present: Calligraphy by Hekiun Oda, at the International Museum of Surgical Science.
The program begins with a live calligraphy performance, followed by an artist talk exploring Oda's creative practice, his approach to Japanese calligraphy, and the ideas behind his exhibition. Visitors will also have an opportunity to observe an artist demonstration, offering a closer look at his brushwork, techniques, and creative process.
The event concludes with a Q&A session, inviting visitors to engage directly with the artist.
Presented as part of Japan in Practice, a rotating exhibition series at the International Museum of Surgical Science.
About the Artist: Hekiun Oda
Hekiun Oda is a Japanese calligraphy artist whose practice is rooted in the classical traditions of shodō. Combining traditional brush techniques with expressive and modern interpretations of written characters, his work explores the visual beauty, movement, and emotional qualities of Japanese calligraphy.
Born in Kobe, Japan, in 1963, Oda began studying calligraphy at age five under master Goun Katsura. He moved to Chicago in 1990 and founded the Oda Calligraphy Association in 2009. Through exhibitions, live performances, and workshops, he has introduced Japanese calligraphy to diverse audiences, emphasizing both technical mastery and the expressive possibilities of brush and ink.
His recent work includes cross-cultural collaborations with Persian calligraphy, exploring connections between different calligraphic traditions. His work has been presented at the Japanese Culture Center of Chicago, McHenry County College, and the Heritage Museum of Asian Art, among other venues.
Event venue & nearby stays
International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, United States
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