Aya Itagaki is truly a master teacher. She teaches Calligraphy and Sumie from the heart and each stroke of her brush is filled with flowing spirit. When she guides my hand across the paper, I feel effortless grace. Although I am a beginning student, my family and friends marvel at the spontaneity, clarity and simplicity of the paintings I have done in her class. I am not able to study with her on a regular basis. However I try to arrange my schedule so that I can take all workshops that she offers in my area. If you have the opportunity to study with Aya, whatever your level, you will find a very special woman and teacher, who will treat you with warmth, laughter and great skill.

Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen

Founder and Educational Director

The school for Body-Mind centering

Amherst, Ma

I have been studying with Aya since 1994. Her teaching has developed my sensitivity to the composition, energy and spirit in all types of painting. Her openness and enthusiasm are contagious.
--- Kathleen Swift, Artist

Aya teaches with a style which can energize and inspire you on he greyest days. She adapts to each student's learning pace and style with the eye of experience.
--- Michel Hatch, Middlebury College

I have developed a deep respect of Japanese art and culture. Her wisdom, energy and enthusiasm for life has inspired me to teach Sumi Calligraphy and to share with my students some basic beliefs that I have learned from Aya.
--- Janice Leigh, Art Teacher