Hiroshi Wada is a distinguished Japanese calligrapher whose artistic journey reflects a deep commitment to the traditional art of calligraphy while simultaneously pushing its boundaries into contemporary realms. Born in Iizuka City, Fukuoka, and raised in Kyoto, Wada began his calligraphy training at the tender age of five. This early immersion in the art form laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors, culminating in his graduation from Kindai University.
At the age of 30, Wada sought to deepen his craft by training under the esteemed calligrapher Ryosetsu Imai. This mentorship proved pivotal, allowing him to refine his technique and develop a unique style that resonates with both traditional and modern aesthetics. His dedication to calligraphy has not gone unnoticed; he was selected for the prestigious Nitten Exhibition in 2011, 2012, and 2014, marking him as a significant figure in the Japanese art scene.
Wada’s ambition to share his art with the world came to fruition in 2017 when he resolved to transcend the conventional boundaries of calligraphy. This determination led him to participate in numerous international exhibitions, showcasing his work across continents. Reflecting on his process, Wada explains, “I have been practicing classical calligraphy since the age of five, dedicating over 50 years to its discipline. However, when I create contemporary art, I empty my mind completely, letting go of everything I have learned—sometimes even closing my eyes as I draw. This is the essence of a Zen state.” He adds, “Even so, while I may consciously forget my training, it remains deeply ingrained in my body. Every stroke I draw carries the weight of over five decades of refinement. These are lines that cannot be achieved without relentless discipline.”
In 2019, Wada made a notable impact in the art world by holding a solo exhibition in Chelsea, New York, establishing his presence in the contemporary art scene. His participation in various group exhibitions, including “Collection” at Jelmoni Studio Gallery in Italy and “Rhythms of Emotions” at Galleria 360 in Florence, highlighted his versatility and appeal to diverse audiences.
Wada continued to gain recognition in 2020, receiving the Artist of the Future Award from Contemporary Art Curator Magazine. This accolade underscored his growing influence and the innovative spirit of his work. He was also selected as a finalist in the Art Rights Prize for the first Digital Award for Artists, showcasing his adaptability in the evolving art landscape.
In 2023, Wada’s participation in various exhibitions continued to solidify his reputation. He showcased his work in Sprung7 at ARTHOUSE.NYC and the Canvas International Art Fair 2023 in Venice, among others. His recent exhibitions demonstrate his ongoing exploration of themes related to identity, emotion, and the human experience. Wada describes his artistic focus: “I write Japanese characters. Each character carries a meaning. However, the meaning of the character itself is not deeply connected to what I express through my art. My art is the art of lines—a resonance between lines, between black (lines) and white, capturing the essence of wabi-sabi. It is an art of a collective ensemble of lines.” He elaborates, “Through the strength, softness, beauty, or chicness of a line, I aim to move the hearts of those who encounter my work. At the same time, it would be wonderful if each viewer could fuse the art of the lines with the meaning of the characters, finding their own personal interpretation.”
Looking ahead, Wada participated in several exhibitions in 2024 and 2025, including Echoes of the Tide at Eslite Gallery in Taipei and works on paper at Avivson Gallery in London, indicating his relentless pursuit of artistic expression and connection with global audiences. Wada hopes that “The same character can bring comfort to one person, energy to another, or even bring someone to tears. I hope each person to connect with my work in their own way.”
Hiroshi Wada’s journey as a contemporary calligraphy artist is a testament to his dedication to both tradition and innovation. By bridging the gap between historical calligraphy and modern artistic expression, Wada continues to inspire and engage audiences worldwide. His work not only honors the rich heritage of Japanese calligraphy but also invites viewers to explore new interpretations and meanings within this timeless art form.