Try your hand at an art tradition from China that emerged during the Song dynasty in the 10th-13th centuries! Otherwise known as Sumi-e in Japan, it’s a loose, expressive painting style called Xiěyì 写意 that focuses on capturing the spirit (qi 氣) and inner essence of the subject in preference to realistic portrayal.
It is also an aesthetic ideal that allows artists to present a spiritual haven to people in which they can meditate. By prioritizing mood, gesture, and symbolic forms, Xiěyì paintings create contemplative space where images act as prompts for inward reflection rather than closed, finished statements.
I teach bespoke Chinese brush painting workshops for 1 or 2 people in my studio in the beautiful county of Dorset in southern England.
I also collaborate with other venues in the surrounding area to deliver mixed media workshops for small groups, which often incorporate Chinese brush painting. Browse the Bespoke Workshops & My Events sections below and see what takes your fancy!
Chinese brush painting is suitable for anyone of any age and ability.
Leave perfectionism behind and allow the magic to happen when ink meets unsized paper!
Practice and patience are the keys to success.
Pay full attention to the present moment as you focus on each brush stroke and be the architect of your own well-being.
Reduce anxiety through repetition of basic strokes; target areas of the brain that regulate emotions.
Paint with a deft touch on the paper with a slow and reflective mindset.
Feel more in-tune with your body as you learn to hold the brush correctly and move arms freely.
Accept unplanned surprises and appreciate the character and uniqueness of Chinese brush painting; we paint on unsized paper and the results are less predictable, but fun!
A happy person is a well person.
AN IMMERSIVE DAY LEARNING CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING
In-person tuition for 1 or 2 people (book just for yourself or bring a friend)
Time: 10:00 – 15:00
Location: Arty Genny Studio, nr Blandford, Dorset
Price for 1 person only: £225
Price for 1 + friend: £160
This is a comprehensive five-hour workshop in Chinese brush painting with a light Asian-themed lunch and a relaxed Chinese tea ceremony.
The morning session includes:
30 MINUTE BREAK FOR LUNCH (outdoors on the terrace, weather permitting)
The afternoon session includes:
I had the privilege of being mentored by renowned Chinese brush artist Wang Xiao Yan, 王晓燕, at her home in Anhui province, China in 2019; the techniques I learnt with her I will share with you.
ALL MATERIALS, FOOD AND DRINKS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
AN INTRODUCTION TO CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING
In-person tuition for 1 or 2 people (book just for yourself or bring a friend)
Time: 10:00 – 12:30
Location: Arty Genny Studio, nr Blandford, Dorset
Price for 1 person only: £130
Price for 1 + friend: £100
Have you ever wondered how to paint in the Asian style? Would you like to paint with ink and Chinese brushes? This is a taster workshop in Chinese brush painting where you will learn some basics to start you on your journey!
In this 2.5-hour workshop you will learn the following:
I had the privilege of being mentored by renowned Chinese brush artist Wang Xiao Yan, 王晓燕, at her home in Anhui province, China in 2019; the techniques I learnt with her I will share with you.
ALL MATERIALS AND DRINKS ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
Please note: unlike the full-day workshop, this half-day workshop does not include a Chinese tea ceremony. I can include this for a £10 supplement (£15 for two people).
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