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This fish was part of a series for iHanna’s DIY postcard swap 2011.
At that time, I borrowed a book on sumi-e at the library and it was so inspiring! …And much more difficult than it seems. It’s not easy to restrain yourself to what’s essential.
“The aim of sumi-e is to create a simplified painting, traditionally motifs from nature, with elementary brush strokes to capture the basic perception. Painting is a form of meditation, which brings the artist inner gratification, release and feeling of harmony. If the finished painting brings positive feelings also to an audience, then meaning of creation is fulfilled.” Excerpt from http://sumi-e.cz/.
I was too focused on the technique to fully enjoy the benefits of sumi-e, but I can easily imagine the sensation of calm you might feel if you practice this art on a regular basis.
Have you ever tried it?
Zhu Da here and here, Fabienne Verdier
My mother recently passed away and I found her sumi-e brushes, ink and ink stone – she had not used these for probably 40 years but she kept them – they must have been very dear to her and for me they are a treasure. I have some books too and am trying my hand at this – it is much more difficult than it looks – I think you have done really well. I am very new to art and drawing so everything is a challenge for me and you are inspiring – I really enjoy your blog and it is exciting to see you take on the art of sumi-e.
Thank you for your kind words Andrea.
I am very sorry about your loss… I can understand why her supplies have become a treasure to you. Yes, this art is quite challenging, but maybe through this, we will both find the sense of harmony that sumi-e can bring!
Julie, I know just a little about sumi-e from what I read a very long time ago. But I know that the technique requires a great deal of mastery. Considering this, I think the fish you’ve done is very good.
Thank you for the extraordinary link to Fabienne Verdier. I got lost in her wonderful website for a long long time. There are dishes to be washed in the kitchen sink and work at my desk…but how beautiful and mesmerising her powerful strokes!
Thank you Priya!
If you liked the work of Fabienne Verdier, there is a very interesting book on her 10 year journey in China. It’s called “La passagère du silence”. I tried to find you the a link to an english translation, but not luck. If you can find it, it is worth the read!
I also love her work, such simplicity and strength! There is a vital force in what she does.
Très beau, raffiné, élégant!
Merci pour le Wallpaper!
Moi j’aime tellement celui du mois dernier que je ne me résigne pas à le changer sur l’ordi du bureau à la Caisse… Je garde celui d’octobre, même si j’aime bien celui-ci! :-))
Rien n’oblige à le changer à chaque mois! Je ne mets plus le calendrier pour cette raison. De toute façon, on a une trâlée de logiciels pour nous rappeler quel jour on est!