A shikishi is a type of traditional Japanese mounting board or card that is often used for calligraphy and artwork. The term "shikishi" can refer to both the board itself and the practice of creating art on it.
The standard size of a shikishi is typically around 24 x 27 centimeters (approximately 9.4 x 10.6 inches). Shikishi boards are usually made of high-quality, thick paper or cardboard and are available in various colors, although white is a common choice.
Shikishi boards are commonly used for creating sumi-e (Japanese ink painting) and calligraphy works. Artists, calligraphers, and sometimes even ordinary people use shikishi to express their creativity. The compact size and rigidity of the board make it a suitable surface for traditional Japanese artistic practices.
Additionally, shikishi boards are often used for special occasions or events. For example, they are sometimes used to display a haiku poem, an illustration, or calligraphy as a gift or commemorative item. Shikishi boards may also be signed or stamped by the artist, adding a personal touch to the artwork.
Art San Gallery has recently started exploring the world of shikishi art, adding these traditional boards to our collection. As we begin this journey, we look forward to showcasing our initial discoveries. Keep an eye out as our appreciation for shikishi develops – we aim to gradually introduce more of these beautiful traditional boards, sharing their cultural richness with the art community over time.
Beautiful! Is it water color?