Japanese Ink Painting: Beginner's Guide to Sumi-E

Sumi-e (Japanese for “ink picture”) captures the spirit of the rock, flower, bird or landscape in bold strokes. Beginners can start mastering this ancient art with an inspiring guide that introduces the essential materials, techniques and brushwork, and a range of projects. Recreate the Orchid, Bamboo, Plum Blossom, and Chrysanthemum—sumi-e’s four foundations.

Create exquisite ink paintings that capture the essence and spirit of your subject, rather than exactly what you see. Sumi-e is is a painting technique, a feeling, and a philosophy that's a very personal form of self-expression. Every stroke shows, and there's no correcting or erasing. Think about your subject. What is its essential nature? What does it mean to you? Once you're connected to it, you'll see how to interpret it in brush and ink. Your work will be a joyful, creative experience.