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Peaceful Landscapes

July 8, 2026 Events

A Chinese brush painting workshop

Date: Saturday 3rd October, 2026

Time: 10:00 am to 12:30 pm

Place: The Studo, Café D’Urberville , Sherborne, DT9 3BJ

Price: £75 per person

Experience the tranquillity of painting with a Chinese brush and ink 

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Let me introduce you to a unique style of painting that has been in existence since the Song Dynasty in 10th – 11th century China.

You will learn about the Four Treasures of Chinese brush painting and practice some basic strokes before embarking on your own mindful landscapes.

Landscape painting is referred to as shān shuǐ 山水 and consists of two characters meaning “mountains” and “water”. We will take inspiration from traditional Chinese paintings featuring these important landmarks and create our own reflective landscapes.

What does the workshop involve?

  • Learn about the Four Treasures of Chinese brush painting;
  • Learn the correct posture for holding a Chinese brush;
  • Learn some basic strokes and the importance of controlling water on the brush;
  • Practise mark-making on unsized Xuan paper;
  • Understand the importance of space in Chinese landscapes;
  • Let your imagination run free as you allow the ink to flow on the paper;
  • This style of painting is less about detail, more about the “feeling” of being in a landscape;
  • Repetition and patience are the keys to success!
  • There are no fixed outcomes – by focusing on the brush strokes your landscapes will evolve naturally from the marks you make on the paper;
  • Be prepared for unexpected results, and come with an open mind.

A Chinese brus painting with a small boat and a red-printed signature chop (bottom left) in the foreground. The boat is sailing around a promontory to reach a house on a promontory in the middle-distance. In the far distance the painting evokes mountains

The Details

  • The cost of the workshop is £75 per person;
  • All materials are included in the price;
  • The cost of a tea or coffee is included in the price;
  • The workshop is for adults only;
  • Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows free arm movement. Dangling sleeves are likely to get ink on them!
  • The workshop takes places in Paula Young’s studio on the top floor above the café, and is unfortunately unsuitable for anyone unable to climb stairs;
  • Suitable for all levels, and even complete beginners at painting. However, if you have difficulty holding a pen to write, this workshop will pose a significant challenge for you.
  • Feel free to stay and have lunch together in the café downstairs (at your own cost) once the workshop is finished; I can highly recommend the food and cakes!
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