Sumi-e Japanese Ink Painting Workshop

Sumi-e was introduced into Japan by Zen monks, where reality is expressed by reducing it to its pure, bare form. The Japanese term ‘sumi’ means ‘black ink’ and ‘e’ means painting.

Using simple black ink on rice paper this mindful way of painting encourages you to paint from nature, embracing any mistakes and incorporating that into your work. The Sumi-e experience of painting aims to bring peace and harmony to the artist, and the finished pieces are intended to inspire the same sense of tranquillity and joy in the viewer.

In this beginner’s workshop expert tutor Jurga Villlimaite will take you through the ‘four treasures’ of Sumi-e: the paper, the brush, the ink and the ink stone. You’ll learn how to prepare ink, how to choose and hold Sumi-e brushes, about the varieties of Japanese paper and how the traditional black ink can be manipulated to produce a range of effects. You’ll then have the chance to use your learnings to paint an object of your choice with Jurga on hand to guide you.

About your workshop host

Jurga Villimaite started her art journey at the Art Academy in Vilnius, Lithuania and went on to study at the Sumi-e school of D. Doksaite. She moved to London in 2004 where she now creates, works and teaches.

No previous experience or equipment is required, just bring yourself and enjoy the creative process with Jurga.