Be introduced to the  tools used for Sumi e: The four treasures: Types of ink including grinding your own on a stone from a solid ink stick,  Brushes… including making your own. There will be a variety available to try.  Paper choice…..(some supplied but please bring some… any type as we will explore the properties and factors influencing selection and results.  Also Chop….. what is it, importance and alternatives.

This workshop will be infused with principles and teachings of Zen.  It will encourage you to find a mindful but meditative approach to creating individually unique works of art. Harmony and being immersed in the moment are key as the “journey is paramount”. The fluidity is calming as you create with the flow of water and ink. Drawing skills and colour mixing  are not necessary.

You will learn traditional strokes to depict the four gentlemen (bamboo, wild orchid, chrysanthemum and blossom bracnch)  but also be encouraged to respond to your own experimental , expressive marks from  “brushes”.

Everything will be supplied at least for the first week and we will talk about what you may already have or want to source.