How do a female car stunt driver and a contemporary calligraphy artist collaborate to make magic in just over a minute and make each of us want to create as they do? How do they go far beyond the traditional “ your name written in calligraphy ” advertised so often on the internet?

The new Opel Corsa is San Yalemos’s vehicle of creativity, brush and paint are those of Simon Silaidis. In tandem, one feeding off the other, pushing the limits of their tools and bodies in an expansive landscape, together they create a vision that makes one want to enter into their world. And one can not only do that but actually have one’s own name written.

One is captivated by the sheer artistry, the vision, the idea behind what is, at its essence, a commercial advertisement. It’s purpose is to entertain while at the same time to entice, enthrall, and encourage ownership of such a vehicle, It is a perfect example of a modern application of calligraphy. While the driving and capabilities of the new Opal are dramatically demonstrated, the finale is one of “OH’ or incredible or many other adjectives. Bringing vision into form in such a way goes far beyond expectations. It surprises and delights. And it can finish with your name!

Rona Conti

Rona Conti is an abstract painter, pulp painter and Japanese calligrapher whose artwork is represented in numerous public, private and corporate collections and museums in the United States and internationally. In 1999, at the age of 59, she began studying Japanese calligraphy with (Mieko) Kobayashi Sensei of Gunma from whom she received her pen name (魂手恵奈). After Sensei's retirement she began to study with the esteemed teacher (Sakiko) Yanagisawa Sensei. Invited to exhibit calligraphy at the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art with the International Association of Calligraphers, she received the “Work of Excellence" Prize three times. Recent exhibitions include The Yokohama International Calligraphy Exhibition in 2024, and the 36th Fuji Gendai Shoten where she received First prize. She was invited to demonstrate Japanese Calligraphy at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Her handmade paper artwork was produced in New York City at Dieu Donne Papermill. http://www.ronaconti.com

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