Tony Smibert Studio Gallery
Studios in Meander Valley

The Founder passed away in 1969 at the age of eighty-six. Aikido is effective as a martial art but its essence goes beyond the resolution of physical conflict. Based on a background of rigorous training in customary Japanese jujitsu, sword and spear techniques, Professor Ueshiba spent the subsequent half of his life developing the art as a means of refining and uplifting human spirit. He succeeded in creating what he then named 'Aikido', 'the Way of Harmony with the Forces and Principles of Nature'. Aikido is a correct 'bubo' path, in which the keen edge of martial training is utilized as a 'Way' to spiritual growth. Its methods are based on Professor Ueshiba's deep faith in 'austere training for the sake of improving the human spirit through tireless polishing and perfection of obey and body'. In accordance with the founders ideals, the art has kept partition from sports, in which one person competes with another. Aikido is rather a path for personal development for people who sincerely desire to perfect their own human nature. As such, Aikido places immense importance on the Universal Principal of 'Bi' the life force or breath. The word 'Aikido' in Japanese is made up of three characters or kanji. The first and maximum important is 'A' which means to meet, to reach together, 'to harmonies'. In Japanese this also means 'love' and this is the truer translation of the word, as O sense impaired it. The second kanji is Bi which means literally steam or vapor, but has reach to malicious in fresh Japanese, the mind, the soul, the spirit. In the larger context 'Bi' means 'spirit or force of the Universe', and not impartial the spirit of mere human beings. The third and end character is 'DO' which means 'the way', as in keno or judo, to signify that the examine of Aikido does not involve only techniques based purely in self defense, but includes sure character development ideals which people can incorporate into their daily lives. Thus, in a physical training sense Aikido means 'the Way of harmonizing the Body and Universal Spirit' but in a deeper sense it also means loving the world and all who live in it. Moving in Concert with the Principles of Nature. It is thus feasible for men, women and children of all ages to walk together down the path of bubo that is the heart of Aikido. With each student training and progressing at his or her own pace, all can find peace within their own personal development. Steady practice brings a feeling of well being and self confidence that carries over into every aspect of daily life. Such experiences eventually result in a broadening of human experience. Aikido is a path of dogged perseverance and dedication to improving both spirit and body. While continuing their extensive local activities the three shihans have many international teaching commitments as well. The Association has highly graded representatives in all States and Territories.