Sumi-e: The Art of a Single Stroke

A Japanese ink painting workshop

How can a few movements of the brush capture the curve of a branch, the lightness of a flower or the movement of a bird? In the Japanese art of sumi-e, what matters is not the precision of every detail, but mood, character and the beauty of simple lines.

In this workshop we will learn the basic techniques of Japanese ink painting: controlling the brush, creating expressive lines and washes, working with tones and adding delicate watercolour accents.

We will draw inspiration from nature: slender bamboo branches, blossoming trees, birds and plants.

Artist: Olga Dospekhova, a painter and teacher who studied art in Russia and France. She has taken part in group and solo exhibitions in Russia and Europe. Olga works in a range of artistic techniques, and in her workshops she shares her experience, helping participants master new techniques and find their own style.

What awaits you:
An introduction to the aesthetics and technique of sumi-e.
Working with ink, brush and watercolour.
Learning simple yet expressive techniques of Japanese painting.
Creating your own painting to take home.

No drawing experience is needed. What matters much more is the wish to try something new, slow down a little and enjoy the process.

Duration: 1–1.5 hours.
For: adults and teenagers.
All materials are included.

Organizer: TATYANA ZHESTKOVA IE