Upcoming Events

The Japanese Culture Center hosts a wide variety of classes, events, and demonstrations to explore the rich cultural heritage of artists and creators worldwide. Come join us for an immersive experience right in the heart of Chicago!

Loading Events

« All Events

  • This event has passed.

Virtual June Sumi-e Classes (Tuesdays)

June 6 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Japanese ink painting, (sumi-e) is the art of painting using brush (fude), ink (sumi) and thin absorbent “rice-paper” (washi).

The Bamboo Path

As we take a contemplative journey along The Bamboo Path, you are invited to Practice the sumi-e vocabulary of strokes. Each class will begin with a meditation, followed by some lessons in technique for Trunks, Stems, Branches, Leaves and composing a painting using Paper from The Beginner Roll or The Advanced Paper Roll. All levels are welcome, plan to let go and have fun while learning a few new stroke techniques.

Japanese ink painting, (sumi-e) is the art of painting using brush (fude), ink (sumi) and thin absorbent “rice-paper” (washi).

About this Event

The emphasis is on the process! The Class will review the foundations of Sumi-e.

  • Introduction to an appreciation of Chinese/Japanese calligraphy and painting
  • “Four Treasures” (The ink stick, the ink stone, brush and paper) , the equipment and supplies
  • Basic exercise on painting Bamboo Trunks, Branches, petals and the basic composition of a Bamboo painting
  • Each class begins with a Zen lesson followed by breath and hand exercises.
  • Demonstration of the “Vocabulary of strokes followed by step-by-step guided instruction on how to paint “The Four Nobles (Gentlemen): The Bamboo Path”
  • Int & Adv. will focus on Trunks, Branches, petals and composing paintings using Paper from The Advanced Paper Roll.
  • Advanced Students will be provided individualized guidance, work at their own pace discovering “idea” paintings and advanced techniques.
  • All levels are welcome, plan to let go and have fun while learning a few new stroke techniques.

If you need course materials a full sumi-e kit is available here.

Beginning Tutorial Lessons are on YouTube. Please subscribe to Larkin Green Studio YouTube Channel. New lessons will be added on a regular basis.

4 weeks for $120

Time: Tuesday 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM CST

Dates: June 6, 13, 20 & 27

A Zoom link to join the class will be provided upon registering in the Eventbrite confirmation email.

*Registration closes one hour prior to the class time.e.