This comprehensive four-day workshop offers an in-depth exploration of Chinese brush painting, blending traditional techniques with contemporary interpretations. Designed for both beginners and those with prior experience, the course focuses on mastering the essential tools, techniques and philosophies behind this timeless art form.

You will start by becoming familiar with the "Four Treasures of the Study" — the brush, ink, ink stone and rice paper — and you will learn how to handle these tools to create various brushstrokes, such as thick, thin and combined strokes.

The course will cover the process of mixing ink and applying watercolour techniques to create different effects. Emphasis will be placed on capturing the spirit of nature, using minimal strokes to express its essence.

Throughout the workshop, you will explore the symbolism embedded in traditional subjects like flowers, birds and landscapes. Techniques will be taught in stages, with demonstrations and hands-on practice to ensure mastery of each aspect of the painting process. The focus will be on developing a strong understanding of composition, balance and the use of negative space, all while creating paintings that reflect the simplicity and beauty of nature.

In addition to traditional brush painting, the course will introduce the delicate art of silk painting, giving you the opportunity to work with different mediums and explore the textures and effects unique to silk. Personalised feedback will guide you in refining your individual technique.

By the end of the course, you will have gained a deeper understanding of Chinese brush painting, mastering advanced techniques and creating your own artwork on both paper and silk.

Included

On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials, including Xuan paper (rice paper), backed Xuan paper, a scroll and silk per student, and some ink and Chinese painting colour pigment to share amongst the group. Brushes will be provided for use during the course.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions