Chinese Brush Painting

Materials needed:

*Rice paper

*Spray adhesive

*Mat board

*Ink (such as India Ink)

*Brushes (both foam and hair)

*Water

*Water cups

*Paper towels

*Steeped tea

*Newsprint paper

This project reflects the artistic practices of calligraphers in China. This was an important way of studying the importance of lines expressed in the Chinese culture. Learning to paint this way forces the painter to think in a simple and expressive way to create a composition. It is a totally new and different frame of mind for those of the Western culture. 

To begin, take some rice paper and place it on a clean and dry surface (counter tops such as vinyl or stone are best) do not use on wood. With the smooth and shiny side of the paper facing down, and the rougher side facing up, prepare some green tea. Using a small amount of water and a tea bag, allow the tea to steep for several minutes, the process is sped up when put in the microwave. The liquid should be cool or room temperature before use. Take a sponge brush and dip into the tea. Gently spread the tea over the rice paper. It tears easily. Load up the brush and push gently down onto the paper, releasing the tea so it can pool onto the paper. Do this until the whole paper is covered. Allow to completely dry over night. Once dry, press the paper for a full day using a heavy object (one that is flat and covers the whole paper) such as a textbook. Once it is pressed then the painting is ready.

While the drying and pressing are taking place, it is important to practice the four basic strokes as well as planning the layout of the piece.


*Video tutorial available below to show the following steps*

For practice, the first step is to hold the brush correctly (using a haired brush) hold the brush with the thumb on one side and all four fingers in a row on the other, and creating strokes by keeping the wrist stiff and creating movement with the whole arm. Forming a flat ‘u’ shape creates the first stroke and the second is the letter ‘z’ turned sideways (these will represent the connection segments of bamboo).
The third is done by pressing the brush onto the paper, lifting lightly while pulling the brush upwards or away from you, and then pressing back down again when the desired length of the line is reached (this will represent the bamboo stocks).
The fourth is done by pressing the brush (with the fine tip facing toward you) down and then pulling the brush toward you to make the hairs of the brush fold over themselves, and gently pull up to crate a wispy pointed finish to the line (this will represent a leaf).

Once sufficient practice has been done, and a layout has been established of a bamboo scene, then the final painting can be done. Using the same techniques, I put together a composition using three pieces of paper. I found the symbol that represented my name (Sage or wise one/teacher) and practiced the form and techniques of the strokes for that character before putting it one the final piece.

Once I finished the painting, I let it dry and pressed it again. I sprayed the backs of the pieces with adhesive and gently smoothed and pressed from one end of the paper to the other onto the mat board, then trimmed the mat board to the size I wanted.

I learned so much from this project. I realized how much I love this style of Chinese brush painting. I learned new ways to hold a tool, and how to create calligraphy properly. I also explored the possibilities and limitations of rice paper, while experimenting with a natural dye. This by far was one of the most fun projects I have done. I want to continue to work in it.