Being in the moment is the heart of Sumi-e, it originated in China then was adopted by the Japanese. "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. |
All my art is framed without glass. Each painting is on paper which is bonded to gator board or cradle board. Cold wax is hand rubbed on the finished painting to protect its surface. Floater frames are my favorite for the contemporary setting. The beauty of the Indian Ink and colors can be "touched with your eyes" and enjoyed for many generations. |