MATTEO DAIDONE
AIKIDO
This project is centered around the activities of the Shochikubai Dojo in Rome, Italy, from autumn 2020 to early summer 2021. A very challenging period of time for our society due the coronavirus pandemic and its negative impact on our relationship with each other and our surroundings.
Dojo is a Japanese word meaning "place for immersive learning". Aikido is a little known Japanese martial art profoundly influenced by a humanistic approach. It was born in the 1920's in Tanabe, central Japan, thanks to the innovative teachings of Morihei Ueshiba.
Aikido is a synthesis of martial studies, philosophy and religious beliefs. Aikido is often translated as "the way of unifying life energy". According to the founder's philosophy, the primary goal in the practice of Aikido is to overcome oneself instead of cultivating violence or aggressiveness. Ueshiba envisioned Aikido not only as the synthesis of his martial training, but as an expression of his personal philosophy of universal peace and reconciliation.