Contemplative Mind, Spontaneous Brush: Ink, Colour and Japanese Washi Papers

Relax body, breath and mind with short guided meditations and simple perceptual exercises. Follow brushwork demonstrations using Japanese sumi ink and watercolour on various Japanese washi papers (provided). Inspired by surrounding natural subject matter, and mixed media approaches of layering, tearing and collaging cultivate personal and unique expressions in abstract or naturalistic imagery. Deep intuitive and directed studies lead to an abundance of patterned washis for further artworks to use post workshop and make a series of finished artworks during the workshop.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how silent reflection precedes active involvement and spontaneity of brush-line-painting.
• Repeated gestural studies lead to discovery of personal mark making using self-made and unusual implements and brushes.
• Tonality or value in ink studies creates an understanding for harmonious compositions.
• Exploration of various Japanese washi papers
• Transparency, colour saturation.
• Enjoy the ‘tip of the iceberg’ experience of playing with Japanese washis in completed works and spark creativity for future projects.

“Je suis une étudiante de Heather depuis 20 ans. J’ai débuté en 2000 au Musée de Beaux Arts de Montréal. J’aime surtout comment on débute nos cours avec un moment de recueillement et on débute en observant Heather comment elle prépare sa création et nous enseigne ses techniques. Ensuite on est libre de profiter de l’inspiration de Heather avec nos idées et créativité. Et c’est toujours un succès et très inspirant quand on travaille en groupe. Et chaque atelier est différent et ainsi chacun enrichit ses connaissances en peintures très variées.” – Theresia, Past participant

[“I have been a student of Heather’s for the past 20 years. I started at the fine arts museum in Montreal, in 2000. I particularly enjoy that we start our classes with a moment of reflection/meditation* and we start with observing how Heather prepares her creations and teaches her techniques. And so, we are free to profit [gain] from Heather’s  inspirations with our ideas and creativity. It’s always a success and truly inspiring to work in groups. Every session is different and so each is enriching of her knowledge and varied paintings”] Translated by Jolaine Boucher

Daily Schedule

A detailed schedule will be available at least 2 weeks in advance of the program. View sample schedule here.