Cal-Sumi Studio
書

Custom calligraphy,
brought to American walls.

Cal-Sumi Studio brings the one-of-a-kind calligraphy artwork to collectors and homes across the United States.

Partnering with Master Issai Tanaka, Japan

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Portrait of Issai Tanaka — replace with licensed photo
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Issai Tanaka

Born 1977 — lives and works in Japan as a full-time calligrapher and performance artist

Master Tanaka studied Chinese literature at Daito Bunka University before devoting himself fully to shodo, the traditional art of Japanese brush calligraphy. His work has been recognized repeatedly at the Yomiuri Shoho exhibition, one of Japan's most respected calligraphy competitions, and ranges from towering kaisho characters to quiet, closely observed line work. He is also known internationally for live calligraphy performances, brushing large-scale pieces before an audience in a single unbroken sequence of movement.

Cal-Sumi Studio works directly with Master Tanaka to bring new, original pieces to American collectors, along with the context and craft history behind each one.

RecognitionYomiuri Shoho Exhibition
TrainingDaito Bunka University
Notable InstallationsCorporate & Hospitality Interiors, Japan
PracticeKaisho, Gyosho & Sosho Styles
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Commission a Piece

Work with Master Tanaka directly to create a piece written for you — a word and a meaning chosen with care.

I

Consultation

We discuss the word or phrase you'd like brushed, its meaning, the setting it will live in, and the scale and style that suit it.

Choose a Size

Every piece is brushed to the scale that suits its setting, from an intimate accent to a full statement wall. Exact dimensions for each size will be added soon.

Small
Dimensions coming soon

A quiet accent for an entryway, desk, or shelf.

Medium
Dimensions coming soon

A feature piece for a living room or office wall.

Large
Dimensions coming soon

A statement work for a lobby or grand wall.

Choose a Word

We'll work with you to decide on the word or phrase you'd like brushed — something that means a great deal to you, or a word you live by. The calligraphy is never just about the beauty of the character itself — it becomes a daily, beautiful reminder of the belief or intention you carry with you.

Examples of Inspirational Words
love 愛 truth 真 heart 心 soar 翔 courage 勇
Nature Words
ocean 海 sky 空 mountain 山
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Creation

Master Tanaka brushes your piece by hand in his studio in Japan. Every commission is an original — never a print or reproduction.

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Delivery

Your piece is mounted or framed to your preference, shipped with a signed certificate of authenticity, and arrives ready to hang.

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Bringing shodo into American homes and collections.

Cal-Sumi Studio was founded to close the distance between Japan's living calligraphy tradition and collectors in the United States who want more than decoration — pieces with real craft, history, and presence.

We work in close partnership with Issai Tanaka, sourcing and commissioning original work, handling authentication, framing, and shipping, and helping collectors understand the meaning and technique behind each piece they bring home.