"Sumi-e" - Japanese Ink Painting

Workshop with Uta Wilczok

Sumi-e translates as "black ink picture" or "black ink painting" - an art form practised in Japan for centuries, refined to mastery in Zen monasteries. The workshop offers a glimpse into the "way of black ink": spontaneous, meditative, with nature as the measure of all beauty. The materials are minimal - delicate paper, a brush, ink, water - and your own attentiveness.

Participants will paint classical motifs known as the "Four Gentlemen" (bamboo, orchid, chrysanthemum, winter plum), though anything that moves us inwardly is worth depicting. The aim is not to copy a motif but to sense its essence - as the old masters put it: "When you paint bamboo, be the bamboo."

The session begins with a short introduction to the history of Japanese ink painting: different styles, composition, perspective, the significance of unpainted space, and the symbolism of motifs. Then participants paint under guidance - no prior experience needed, just a relaxed beginner's mind. All materials are provided.

Minimum age: 12 years