Being in the moment is the heart of Sumi-e, which originated in China then was adopted by the Japanese centuries ago. "Black ink painting" is imagining Nature's hidden vitality-it's life force. This is what intrigues me--painting my reverence for Nature with my brush. It's fascinating, as I watch what happens on the paper: Xuan, Mulberry or Unryu are a few of my favorites. Each responds to the ink differently, I may have to work slower or faster-- It's a balance of serendipity and brush skill. I may add colors of acrylic, oil bar or colored pencil-this adds a distinctive finish to my paintings. Discovering, less is more. Knowing when to stop still challenges me. The rewards are endless. |
All paintings are framed without glass. I stand at my table while I apply Indian Ink on Xuan, Mulberry or Unryu paper. Once it has dried I bond the painting to gator board or cradle board. Cold wax is hand rubbed on the finished painting to protect its surface. I frame with floater frames, they give a contemporary finish to my work. Without glass the beauty of the Indian Ink and colors can be "touched with your eyes" and enjoyed for many generations. |