Chinese Brush Painting

Using an ancient Chinese Brush painting technique, the paintings are done without preliminary drawings, allowing the color and shapes to flow freely. I have modified the process somewhat producing my images on handmade Nujabi paper, handmade Lokta paper,  or acid-free mat board using Chinese watercolor paint, as well as traditional Sumi inks.

When the inks are used, I grind a solid ink stick by hand onto an ink stone. Then I add water to produce the "paintable" medium. At other times, or in combination with the inks, I use Chinese watercolor paints, (a little richer in tone and more opaque than "regular" watercolor), which I applied with a traditional bamboo brush. 

Most paintings are made using one brush for all strokes, including the broadest, fullest areas and thinnest, fine lines. Variations are created by changing the  pressure or the angle of the brush strokes. 

The challenge of Chinese Brush painting is to capture the essence of the flower, not an exact botanical images.  I personally enjoy creating with the spontaneity that comes from allowing the colors and shapes to flow with a controlled, but not controlling hand.