Chinese Brush Painting with Jo-An Thomas

 Chinese Brush Painting is the foundation of all oriental brush arts. Painting in China is a way of life – and as such, it hails from the philosophies of Taoism and Confucianism. Nature and its grandeur is appreciated for its intangible spirituality.

In this beginner’s series, you will start by calming your spirit, thinking, and meditating about how you will paint the essence of your subject. Preparing yourself to paint, you may use “The Four Treasures”- brush, ink stick, ink stone, and rice paper- that have defined this art form for thousands of years. (or we may use bottled ink for a more efficient use of our time together..)

You will find that Chinese Brush Painting is an enlightening practice in embracing change.

You will gain an overview of the history, philosophy, and aesthetic concepts, understand the proper selection, care, preparation, and use of traditional materials, and perform the basic skills and techniques for brush strokes.

Learn the basics of Chinese Brush Painting through hands-on instruction, complete compositions, handouts, and discussion. Mastery of the brush empowers artists of any medium.

Note: Wear comfortable clothing. India ink is permanent, be careful so that you do not ruin your clothes.

What makes Chinese Brush Painting unique?

Hsieh-I and Po Mo style is the spontaneous style of Chinese Brush Painting, which means “to depict an idea.” Executed in a lively, simple, and speedy manner, one expresses the spirit and essence of a subject rather than its realistic detail. The artist is at one with the subject, and the painting is a medium for self-expression and self-discovery.

$20 material fee due to instructor at the 1st class for the supplies. This will include practice and rice paper supplies. *To enhance your experience if you would like to use colors and have better tools, please go to my page on Oriental Art Supplies.  https://orientalartsupply.com/collections/jo-an-thomas  and scroll to the bottom of the page for other supplies that you may wish to purchase.