MAMIMOZI - Fusing Graffiti with Calligraphy

© MAMIMOZI

Calligraphy, or Shodo, stands at the heart of Japanese culture. A dance of ink and brush with roots that run deep through history. Within this storied tradition, one artist emerges at the forefront of innovation. Yokogao has a chat with Japanese calligraphy artist MAMIMOZI, about the evolution of her unique style and remarkable approach to bridging cultures.

Shodo, translating to "the way of writing," embodies the elegant art of Japanese brush and ink calligraphy. Its origins trace back to the Han dynasty in China, where the foundational techniques and brushstrokes took shape. Arriving in Japan during the 6th century, Shodo has evolved over time. While some practitioners adhere closely to tradition, others venture into innovative methods, enriching the practice with contemporary approaches to Japanese calligraphy art.

Mami-san, better known as MAMIMOZI, found her muse at the young age of 9. Drawn by a hunger for self-expression she embarked on a journey to create her own artistic style. The result? Calligraph2ity, a harmonious fusion of calligraphy's age-old elegance and the rebellious spirit of graffiti culture. Standing at the crossroads of cultures, MAMIMOZI breathes new life into the ancient art form.

© MAMIMOZI

What vision is hiding behind the name Calligraph2ity?

“Calligraph2ity combines calligraphy and graffiti, but the true meaning lies in the number 2.  In Japanese language, the number “2” is pronounced as “fu”, which in katakana would translate to カリグラフ(2)ティ, being pronounced as karigurafuti. Later it became the current spelling.”

“The number itself has different meanings. Firstly, it represents the deep-rooted connection to Japanese culture, crucial to the art. Secondly, it forms a crossroad of different cultures. Lastly, the number "2" crafts a bridge across generations, the 2nd culture, a testament to evolution and perpetuity. Calligraph2ity isn't just a combination of words; it's a cultural metamorphosis.”

© MAMIMOZI

The bridge across generations, does this also include bridging language gaps by introducing Shodo to global audiences?

“Yes, that’s one of the reasons behind the water circle concept, where I draw a circle in different locations all over the world using a Shodo brush and water. The circle is a universal symbol, it carries a message of unity across borders. At the same time it represents Japanese enso culture, symbolizing a moment when the mind is free to let the body create. By creating the circle with water, this technique can be performed anywhere in the world, leaving a temporary message representing my style, while breaking language barriers.”

The water circle is universal, but kanji is not. How do people who can’t read kanji understand your work?

“Each kanji character carries its own meaning, which I find incredibly fascinating. By converting a spectator’s name into kanji, I can infuse it with a new meaning. I find this process to be very intriguing. Seeing the spark in their eyes and the joy they express makes me feel fortunate to have been born in a kanji culture.”

“But there are other ways that people enjoy my performances. Many spectators who don’t understand Kanji are often interested in the movement of the writing style. Even my kimono might intrigue them. So if the kanji is a language barrier, people do enjoy the performance, the energy, and the atmosphere.”

© MAMIMOZI

Is there a message you want to get across through your work?

“The message of "expressing your own thoughts more" is consistent throughout my work. In the past, I often incorporated a rebellious spirit against the old system of calligraphy into my works' messages. However, now I've reached a point where I don't really care anymore. My focus is on self expression now.”

Speaking of rebellion, how far do you stray from traditional calligraphy rules?

“What I uphold is the backbone and history of calligraphy. What I distance myself from are tools and perspectives. In a way I’m sampling history. With respect to its origins, I incorporate my own way of thinking while expressing it, resulting in an art form that wanders beyond calligraphy. Since I'm doing something that nobody has done before, I anticipate there will be critical opinions. However, I'm expressing myself in line with my own beliefs, so I don't particularly concern myself with it.”

© MAMIMOZI

Do you often seek new approaches to blend technology with calligraphy?

“With 3500 years of history, Shodo has seen many transformations. Originally it used to be written on bones. Compared to its long history, calligraphy on paper is rather new. Today I’m trying a new approach, a futuristic take on the art of Shodo. I do this by using VR methods to perform but also AR filters on Instagram to spread awareness for the art of calligraphy.”

Final question. What would your ultimate dream collab look like?

“I would love to collaborate with my favorite rapper, Kendrick Lamar. If I had to choose a dream location the setting would be in outer space, in zero gravity. But also under the night sky and at a grand festival venue, there are many places I would love to perform. However, the greatest source of happiness for me would be to write alongside the people I admire.”

© MAMIMOZI

In a world where tradition and rebellion stand at opposite ends, MAMIMOZI effortlessly weaves them together. Her Calligraph2ity is more than a fusion of calligraphy and graffiti; it's a testament to the power of art to evolve, to bridge gaps, and to inspire. In her hands, tradition and rebellion harmonize, creating a symphony of expression that speaks to the heart.

With a nod to history, she forges her own path, incorporating new tools and perspectives to breathe life into a timeless art form that is not bound by tradition. Untouched by criticism, she stands resolute in her belief that art is a reflection of self.

As MAMIMOZI’s journey continues, we can only anticipate the waves of change she'll bring to the world of Shodo, forever leaving her mark on the canvas.

Follow MAMIMOZI on Instagram, where you can take a deep dive into her work and book her for a unique performance.

© MAMIMOZI

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