Practice Practice Practice

Well, I'd say it's not much right now. Seen above is a practice sheet where I painted a bunch of circles and other simple objects. I still haven't quite gotten the hang of balancing the amount of water in the ink. I think I need to use less. I am pleased however with my progress with the oblique brush strokes which form the gradients. While it is still far from perfect, I have been able to great tonal variation and a step in the right direction is good enough for me at the moment. I am confident that I can learn to charge the brush with ink and paint simple subjects with slightly more practice. But what comes after that, painting actual objects and scenery, is a whole other challenge.

Learning the Materials

With Sumi-e comes a great deal of unique tools. I find the inkstick and inkstone (suzuri) the most obvious examples. The fresh grinding of ink is something I have not seen before elsewhere. It took some time but I was able to gather all the materials noted, trying to keep to the original sumi-e tools as best as I can. Some materials had to be replaced or improvised, but the

important objects are all present. I am striving to use traditional techniques, all the way down to how to prepare the brush. It is different, but previous use of ink has helped me get used to the flow of the techniques. I have been practicing using newspaper, waiting until I get a better feel for the ink and wash. The way to hold the brush takes some getting used to as well. There are many specifics so it just takes practice to get them down to memory.

Starting With Sumi

Alliteration aside, Sumi-e is an ancient practice from Japan that has been cultivated over many years, ever since it was imported from China in the 14th Century. Using ink ground from an inkstick (sumi) many different effects can be produced. Varying the ratio of water and ink can affect the tone and the angling of the brushstrokes can create different gradients. Sumi-e is greatly influenced by the spiritual teachings of Zen and this influence has led to many beautiful works of art. While I do not expect to achieve such a level, I hope to make something acceptable and perhaps learn a thing or two along the way.