Over 25 years years of studying traditional Japanese calligraphy study in Japan and study of Chinese painting after her move to the United States in 1964, have become the foundation of Aya's teaching method.

Almost 30 years of teaching experience with students in the United States has led to the developing of her own unique style of teaching Japanese calligraphy and Sumi-E painting. To her students her hands on teaching method results in an unique effortless feeling for the movement of the brush. Correct breathing, the relaxed body movement, the humble attitude of Zen " Beginner's Mind " allows students to express their honesty. After emptying cups of Aya's tea, students are encouraged to blend their own flavored tea. Using only black ink, paper and the tip of a brush they portray the basic element of expression of that moment, while asking " Who you are?".

One lives only one life.

Recently, Aya has been making brushes with deer hairs and blue fox hairs with exciting results and sharing this new experience with her students.