"Sumi-e" - Japanese Ink Painting

Workshop with Uta Wilczok

Sumi-e means black ink image or ink painting. It is an art form practiced in Japan for centuries, perfected in Zen monasteries through its simplicity and expression of the essence of things.
The workshop offers insight into the "way of black ink," which is spontaneous and meditative, where nature is the measure of all beauty. This special path requires little: delicate paper, brushes, ink, water. And our mindfulness, individuality, our action in the present moment.

Classic motifs are often painted, such as the "Four Gentlemen": bamboo, orchid, chrysanthemum, and winter plum. But truly, everything that surrounds us, everything that touches us inwardly, is worthy of depiction. It is not about copying the motif, but rather capturing a moment, sensing its essence. The old masters said: "When you paint bamboo - be the bamboo. Nothing more." It is inspiring and joyful to capture plants and animals in this beautiful, focused way.

The workshop is an opportunity to learn materials, technique, and spirit under instruction, and to freely let the brush dance. No prior knowledge is required, only a relaxed, cheerful beginner's mind!
At the beginning, the history of Japanese ink painting will be briefly presented, along with various styles, the particulars of composition and perspective, the significance of what is left unpainted in the images, and the multilayered symbolism of the motifs.

With some practice and guidance, you will succeed in creating your first sumi-e paintings from bold, decisive strokes or delicate, flowing lines.
All materials are provided.