Welcome to the Autumn of Creativity and Tradition: Join us for an enriching journey into Chinese brush painting, Whether you prefer to join us in person at the Joslyn Center, Alhambra, CA, or engage with us online through Zoom and recording video. This autumn, we invite you to explore seasonal themes and intricate techniques that blend tradition with personal expression in the art of Chinese brush painting..
Dates: Every Thursday from October 10 to December 19, 2024. (No class on Thanksgiving) Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST
Course Overview:
As the leaves turn and the air cools, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Chinese brush painting. This autumn, our curriculum draws inspiration from the season's changing landscapes, festive occasions, and symbolic themes, reflecting the harmonious interplay between nature and human life. Open to both beginners and seasoned artists, this course is designed to cultivate your technical skills while encouraging creative exploration. From the elegance of chrysanthemums to the mystique of traditional figures, you'll discover the depth and beauty of Chinese brush painting in a supportive, engaging environment.
Chinese Painting Course Syllabus:
(Subject to change, suggestions welcome)
Bamboo and Pandas: Introduction to Materials
- Overview of rice paper, brushes, and calligraphic strokes
- Panda with Bamboos
Landscape: Forest with Autumn Foliage
- Explore seasonal themes of serenity and Color
The Four Gentlemen: Bamboo, Chrysanthemums with Rock
- Celebrate the nobility of chrysanthemums as a symbol of autumn
Landscape: Outlined Foliage in landscape painting
- Focus on the traditional techniques of painting trees
Flowers and Birds: Cranes and Pines
- Trace the traditional symbolism of longevity in Chinese brush painting
Landscape: Mountains in the cloud and Mist
- Capture the mystical atmosphere of autumn fog and clouds with pouring ink and colors inspired by Chang Daichien(Zhang Daqian)
Flowers and Birds: Gape Vines and Oriol
- Study Shuchi Chang's styles of painting birds, grape vines, tendrils, leaves, and fruits
Landscape: Landscape with Swan Geese
- Gazing into those seasonal migrating birds in the Autumn Skyline
Animals: Tiger
- Embracing the tiger and explore how compassion and forgiveness can transform inner tension into peace, reflected through our brushwork.
Season's Greeting: Santa Claus and Christmas Cards
- Borrowing Chinese painting techniques to create Christmas cards
Online Learning Journey:
For those unable to attend in person, we offer the option to join live sessions via Zoom or to view recorded sessions on YouTube at your convenience. Regardless of how you participate, you are encouraged to submit your artwork for personalized feedback. This flexible approach allows you to learn and grow, wherever you may be.
Registration:
Choose your preferred method of participation (Zoom + Recording, or Recording Only) when registering. Given the limited seats for live Zoom sessions, those who are unable to attend in real-time are encouraged to select the recorded option.
Chinese Brush Painting Supplies Checklist:
3-5 Chinese Painting Brushes: Begin with a basic set of a soft brush, a stiff brush, and a small detail brush. Explore a diverse selection here.
Sumi Ink: Opt for bottled liquid ink or ink cake for convenience. Traditionalists may prefer an inkstick and inkstone, available here.
Rice Paper: We recommend unsized or semi-sized Xuan rice paper for flowers and birds painting, and mulberry papers for landscape, available here.
Watercolor Paints: Marie's Chinese painting watercolors or traditional color chips can be found here. Artist quality watercolor or gouache is also suitable.
A Palette and Two White Ceramic Saucers: Essential for mixing and holding your paints.
2 Water Containers: For rinsing brushes and clean water.
Felt Pad: Opt for white or light-colored synthetic or wool felt pad. Available here.
Paper Towel or Hand Tissue: For blotting and drying brushes.
Brush Rest: Preserve your brushes and keep your workspace tidy. Find options here.
Paper Weights: Secure your rice paper in place while painting. A variety of options are available here.
Seal and Red Ink Paste (optional): Start with your initials and consider ordering a personalized Chinese name seal from me later.
Student Value Package:
For your convenience, a curated student value package with all essentials is available here.
Refund Policy:
After attending the first class, if you find the course isn't the right fit, you may withdraw and receive a full refund in store credit. No refunds will be issued after the second class, ensuring a commitment from all students to the learning process and maintaining course integrity.
Unleash Your Creative Potential:
Embrace the opportunity to dive deep into the tradition and artistry of Chinese brush painting this autumn. Let the season inspire your creativity as you engage with timeless techniques, cultural stories, and the beauty of nature through art.
