Sumi, Japanese 酒精墨水畫課程 is one of the hardest and most beautiful arts. Sumi, an art form from the 14th Century, is a combination of philosophy, painting and meditation. Sumi’s timeless appeal, its simplicity in materials and hypnotic methods attract beginners. This page will help novices to learn Sumi – recommended reading.

Zen Buddhism forms the basis of sumi e. This is not just a style of painting, but a philosophy that encourages you to live the present moment. The art is simple and concentrated. Sumi artists are required to convey not the likeness of their subjects, but rather the essence. As soon as the ink touches the page there’s no time for errors, each brushstroke is deliberate.

Sumi uses the “Four Treasures of the Study”, as a source of material. Sumi and Suzuri are the four types. Sumi (made of glue animal and soot) is mixed with water to make ink for the Suzuri. Different sizes of animal and bamboo hair brushes are used to create different effects. Sumi and Washi papers are both absorbent.

Sumi beginners should learn the basics. Sumi-e begins with the horizontal line, vertical lines, dot and sweeping curvature. These basic strokes will help you create future artwork.

Study “Bokuseki”, by practicing Chinese lettering to feel how the brush moves. Sumi training is crucial and it helps you learn how ink interacts on paper.

Sumi-e is a traditional art form that students study after they have mastered the Bokuseki strokes. The Four Gentlemen include bamboos, plums, orchids, and chrysanthemums. They have symbolic meanings. They are a good place to start for beginners because they provide several techniques.

For beginners, ‘Ma’ (negative space) is essential. Sumi-e is a style that values inked as well as uninked pieces. Ma is the key to creating balance in compositions, as well as depth and form. This allows the viewers’ imagination to be used in interpreting the painting.

Sumi-e’s output is just as essential as its process. Ink paintings teach artists to be patient, present, and observe. This is a challenging, yet rewarding process.

The raw, calm, and unpolished connection between the brush, ink, paper, and sumi-e fascinates beginners. The discipline is both creative and meditative. Sumi-e offers a fascinating exploration of artistic traditions and deep self-discovery.