Bamboo and Bird Chinese Brush Painting by Virginia Lloyd Davies
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The book teaches you the basics of how to draw the most common things you would find in a sumi-e painting such as flowers, bamboos, insects, birds and rocks/cliffs/waterfalls. There's a clear explanation to each tools use and how to use it. Sometimes, it would compare the art to Western artstyle.
Overal
This book was honestly breathtaking and definitely a good introduction to Sumi-e. I've seen some paintings in shows but it never really crossed my mind as to the history and the process of the art.The book teaches you the basics of how to draw the most common things you would find in a sumi-e painting such as flowers, bamboos, insects, birds and rocks/cliffs/waterfalls. There's a clear explanation to each tools use and how to use it. Sometimes, it would compare the art to Western artstyle.
Overall, I really loved and enjoyed going through this. The author is clearly very talented and artstyle is so beautiful! My only problem is with the too many "being in the moment" but otherwise the book is amazing.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with the digital copy for an honest review.
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Master the Art of Meditative Brush Painting
Having gone through a watercolor phase that included watching Chinese painting techniques and trying a few on my own I was interested in reading and reviewing this book because it mentioned incorporating mindfulness, a topic that has been of interest to my husband for some time. I found some new ideas and some that reinforced what I had learned before. I believe this book, along with the YouTube ch
Mindful Artist: Sumi-E Painting by Virginia Lloyd-DaviesMaster the Art of Meditative Brush Painting
Having gone through a watercolor phase that included watching Chinese painting techniques and trying a few on my own I was interested in reading and reviewing this book because it mentioned incorporating mindfulness, a topic that has been of interest to my husband for some time. I found some new ideas and some that reinforced what I had learned before. I believe this book, along with the YouTube channel mentioned by the author (@Virgina Lloyd-Davies or https://www.youtube.com/user/virginiald) might prove a great resource for anyone wishing to try their hand at this type of art. The book mentions but does not show the brush strokes thus the recommendation of visiting the author's YouTube uploads.
Along with the definition of Sumi-E painting, a bit of history about its origin and discussion of the four treasures and four gentlemen a materials list and brief discussion of ink and color were given. Various subjects were illustrated from waterfalls to people to insects and flowers. The idea of "boneless" vs "outline" in painting was new to me and made me want to rush to my art room and wet my brushes.
Others were:
* mindfulness: focus on what is now/strokes being made/not the finished product
* Brush strokes/Paintings are living things
* Sumi-E is brush strokes are based on Calligraphy strokes
I found it interesting that I was chatting online with a friend that mentioned Findhorn and a few days later found that the author of this book has worked at Findhorn. Serendipity, perhaps.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Walter Foster for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
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This work basically outlines the differences between watercolor washes and
I received a free electronic copy of this how-to from Netgalley, Virginia Lloyd-Davies, and Walter Foster Publishing. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Mindful Artist of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. This was a work I wound up buying as I have problems with downloading Netgalley's offerings, but it is one I would most likely have purchased any way...This work basically outlines the differences between watercolor washes and painting with watercolors which sounds very simple but is not something I am getting right even yet. It's going to be a long cold winter, so I will be able to get in some practice before gardening duties draw my back outdoors. The depth and detail in these works of Virginia Lloyd-Davies are exquisite, and it is a technique I plan to master! Thank you, Virginia, for sharing your art with us. It makes the heart sing.
pub date Dec 3, 2019
Walter Foster Publishing
Reviewed on December 29, 2019, on Goodreads, Netgalley, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, Kobo, and GooglePlay. Not available for review on BookBub.
The sample pictures are gorgeou and the pages are layed out beautifully, but I will say that I wish there had been more or a breakdown for the different brush stroke
Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting: Master the meditative art of Japanese brush painting by Virginia Lloyd-Davies has far too long of a title if I'm being honest. But the book itself it great, I really love that the author promotes painting simply for the joy and relaxation of painting, not on obsessing over making the perfect painting.The sample pictures are gorgeou and the pages are layed out beautifully, but I will say that I wish there had been more or a breakdown for the different brush strokes and and layering of paint in order to make your own, similar painting. There are several samples of each flower/insect/bird, but if you're a visual learner, like me, you need more of a step-by-step breakdown.
Although I really like the concepts and the meditative practice of this style of painting, I don't believe that I will be picking it up. It would require me to purchase a lot of new supplies that aren't as universal as the painting tools I already own and use. I do believe, however, that I will adopt some of the meditative practices to incorperate into my other painting mediums(watercolor, oil. acrylic).
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Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for sharing an eARC of Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting: Master the meditative art of Japanese brush painting by Virginia Lloyd-Davies with me for reviewing purposes. This is my honest review.
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Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Arts & Photography, Crafts & Hobbies
I've always loved the "less is more" approach of oriental paintings. I struggle with the concept, and fiddle too much, and that loses the lovely light serenity of these works. This books shows me some of where I've been going wrong and has some simple exercises to get started along this way.
I enjoyed too the focus on mindful painting, ensuring you are in the correct way of thinking, r
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Arts & Photography, Crafts & Hobbies
I've always loved the "less is more" approach of oriental paintings. I struggle with the concept, and fiddle too much, and that loses the lovely light serenity of these works. This books shows me some of where I've been going wrong and has some simple exercises to get started along this way.
I enjoyed too the focus on mindful painting, ensuring you are in the correct way of thinking, relaxed, not rushed, that enables such simple but harmonious works. I can see that's something I haven't paid attention to enough in the past. I had noticed in my art that seasons and my mood influences what I paint and the results, but haven't tried to consciously influence my mood. That's something worth trying in future.
I quickly learned another reason my attempts have been massive fails. I have good watercolour paints, brushes and paper, but they are not correct for this type of work, and as the basics are inexpensive I've ordered a few brushes, a couple of pots of ink and some rice paper to try once more, and of course this time I'll pay attention to my mood, my consciousness.
Its a beautiful book, simple and effective and one that's well worth any artist taking a look. I have it as an e-book, but I think as for so much non fiction practical books a physical copy would be better, and of course allow me to really savour those gorgeous illustrations.
Stars: Five a fabulous practical book, for both painting and relaxation techniques. When my supplies arrive I'll be trying out the exercises here and hopefully improve upon my past attempts at painting in this style.
Arc via Netgalley and publishers
Edit Dec 3rd. My rice paper arrived a few weeks back, brushes last week and yay, inks yesterday ( just black, couldn't afford colours yet) so I'll be playing later today hopefully. Hopefully I'll have some pics to add to my review soon.
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I found the philosophy behind this form of art to be very interesting. I was always specially captivated by paintings I've seen of plum trees and the meaning of plum flowers (which, in part I blame Rurouni Kenshin for that, too), and I found really interesting the introduction the author of this book did about the four components that represented the seasons and the meanings people gave them.
I've found the instructions to be I was given an e-book copy by Netgalley in exchange of a honest review.
I found the philosophy behind this form of art to be very interesting. I was always specially captivated by paintings I've seen of plum trees and the meaning of plum flowers (which, in part I blame Rurouni Kenshin for that, too), and I found really interesting the introduction the author of this book did about the four components that represented the seasons and the meanings people gave them.
I've found the instructions to be very clear and precise and it helps that the author has a youtube channel and has given recommendations of other artists to follow. I'm very interested in exploring this form of art, and I'm sure my mum will as well.
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4 stars
A very interesting and useful book if you want to learn or just know more about Sumi-e, which is an art form I hadn't heard of before coming across this book. I love the correlation between art and mindfulness. I would like to try out some of the ideas the book offered.
*Thank you to the author and Netgalley for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review*4 stars
A very interesting and useful book if you want to learn or just know more about Sumi-e, which is an art form I hadn't heard of before coming across this book. I love the correlation between art and mindfulness. I would like to try out some of the ideas the book offered.
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I enjoyed learning about this art style
This is an interesting how-to art book in that it not only teaches the techniques of Japanese brush painting but also teaches how it was historically used for meditation and mindfulness, and how to use it in that way. The author has been studying the art for decades and gives good information on what you need to get started, which is not a lot but very different from Western supplies, how to do brush painting, and lots of example works to follow along with.I enjoyed learning about this art style and loved the way most of the objects she taught were illustrated two ways -- boneless style and outline style. Boneless style means that you just use the brush strokes to paint the object. For instance, painting a butterfly with the boneless style you do fat sweeping strokes for each of the wings and then go back with a detailed brush and do strokes to show the small parts like antennae. The outline style means that you use a detailed brush to first paint the object, and then fill it in with your ink. I'm really drawn to the organic feel of boneless style, so it was neat to see that demonstrated for lots of things like insects and flowers.
Step-by-step tutorials are given for lots of plants and a few other natural items, including bamboo, irises, peonies, insects, rocks and birds.
I don't know that I'll invest in these materials and take up this style of painting, but I am excited to experiment with the techniques here and I'm definitely interested in at least attempting the basics and then working it into my own art adventures.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.
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Those who would like to learn all about the Eastern methods of Sumi-e painting will discover this work a treasure trove of inspiration. Watercolorists who want to explore a similar practice will benefit greatly from examining this text.
SYONOPIS
The origins of Sumi-e painting date back over 2000 years in Japan. Sumi-e rose out of Zen Buddhism where monks would employ it as a means to discipline their minds and improve their concentration. Through the mastery of this ink-b
WHO IS THE TARGET AUDIENCEThose who would like to learn all about the Eastern methods of Sumi-e painting will discover this work a treasure trove of inspiration. Watercolorists who want to explore a similar practice will benefit greatly from examining this text.
SYONOPIS
The origins of Sumi-e painting date back over 2000 years in Japan. Sumi-e rose out of Zen Buddhism where monks would employ it as a means to discipline their minds and improve their concentration. Through the mastery of this ink-based painting method, they wished to achieve an elevated level of focus. The monks would often meditate before grinding the ink stick that they would use to load their fude brushes. They would use rice paper or silk scrolls for their works. Painting in black ink was considered a far superior order of skill than painting in color.
In later years the whole Sumi-e thing became a metaphor for the ephemeral world of the Samurai warrior. Sumi-e still requires dedication and constant practice as well as rigorous training, although the association with the Samurai continues to this day.
The book it is presented in a concise and engaging manner. The book is intended for self-tuition. Clear descriptions and beautiful illustrations hang together in a harmony worthy of the subject.
The key difference between modern Western brushes and the fude brushes of Japan and China is the hair used in their manufacturing. This difference in hair type dramatically alters how the strokes are formed on the surface. Rice paper is far less forgiving than watercolor paper and requires consideration and concentration prior to placing your stroke.
The author tutors the student reader on the different styles of brush strokes. Boneless style uses brush strokes to paint the subject with broad, brave strokes. Whereas outline style is used for greater detail. Boneless is frequently used to depict flowers.
CONCLUSION
The book binds together well with the written word and the copious number of exquisite illustrations. I particularly liked the in-depth tutorials that focus on flowers, insects, birds, stones and bamboo. I equally enjoyed the meditative aspect of Sumi-e that was included both in the title and in the pages. The work is nothing short of a piece of art in its own regard. Perfect for any artists bookshelf.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
My sincere thanks go to Virginia Lloyd-Davies, NetGalley, and Walter Foster Publishing, for affording me the opportunity to review Mindful Artist Sumi-E Painting.
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I felt like the instructions were more for someone who was familiar with the style. Her instructions tended to be 'use this color and this brush and hold it in this way' along with the picture showing the result. I felt like this required the reader to figure out what she meant by how to hold the brush and make the mark. There were only one or two photos showing how to hold the brush, though she did reference a YouTube video you can watch which shows a full bamboo demonstration painting. I enjoyed learning more about sumi-e and would recommend this book to people who already have some experience with watercolor or ink painting.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
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Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting is a tutorial technique and project guide for Japanese & Chinese calligraphy brush painting by Virginia Lloyd-Davies. Due out 3rd Dec 2019 from Quarto on their Walter Foster imprint, it's 128 pages and will be available in ebook and paperback formats.
Walter Foster are familiar and loved by readers everywhere for their specialized technique tutorial books and this one follows the same format. The introductory chapt
Originally published on my blog Nonstop Reader.Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting is a tutorial technique and project guide for Japanese & Chinese calligraphy brush painting by Virginia Lloyd-Davies. Due out 3rd Dec 2019 from Quarto on their Walter Foster imprint, it's 128 pages and will be available in ebook and paperback formats.
Walter Foster are familiar and loved by readers everywhere for their specialized technique tutorial books and this one follows the same format. The introductory chapter (~12% of the content) includes beginning to intermediate techniques and information about form, composition, brush strokes, preparing ink, as well as tools (brushes, inks, paper) and supplies and how to use them.
The following chapters provide a really immersive and engaging group of specific subjects including classic stylized bamboo, orchid, plum, and chrysanthemum (the four gentlemen), iris, peony, insects, birds, and all in the instantly recognizable classic sumi-e style. The text is accessible and the author's voice is positive, encouraging, and meditative. I intend to work my way through the included studies and projects, but I am pleased with the progress I've already made beginning with this book.
There is a nice links and bibliography included with suggestions for books and videos for further exploration. Well done!
Five stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting is a detailed instructional guide on how to understand and create artwork in the beautiful style of Sumi, Japanese ink wash paintings. It should be noted that the artwork in here is really more inspired by the art style, rather than a faithful follower. But personally, I love that Virigina Lloyd-Davis wasn't afraid to add her own flair to the work itself.
Is Mindful A
Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting is a detailed instructional guide on how to understand and create artwork in the beautiful style of Sumi, Japanese ink wash paintings. It should be noted that the artwork in here is really more inspired by the art style, rather than a faithful follower. But personally, I love that Virigina Lloyd-Davis wasn't afraid to add her own flair to the work itself.
Is Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting an art book? Absolutely. But it's also more than that. Lloyd-Davis is also seeking to teach us about meditative artwork. How artwork can be a direct link to mindfulness, and how empowering that knowledge can be.
The artwork inside Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting was stunning, and the philosophy fascinating. Together these two elements made for an education and inspirational read. It's not quite like any other art book I've read, but I enjoyed it immensely. And would encourage others to give it a try as well.
For more reviews check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
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The author provides step-by-step instructions, and encourages the reader to visit her youtube channel to see how the basic strokes are made (I think all authors of art instructional books should provide such a benefit as some instructions are best demonstrated in a video, rather than on a page.)
I think some of the techniques are now incorporated in Western painting especially in rend
Beautiful, beautiful book on how to paint Japanese/Chinese/Korean style flowers, birds, plants and some landscape.The author provides step-by-step instructions, and encourages the reader to visit her youtube channel to see how the basic strokes are made (I think all authors of art instructional books should provide such a benefit as some instructions are best demonstrated in a video, rather than on a page.)
I think some of the techniques are now incorporated in Western painting especially in rendering loose flowers, so even if you are not into Asian painting styles, it will still be of use to learn some of the brush strokes.
Silly me, I didn't realise that I had already subscribed to her channel long ago! I didn't realise when I requested for this ARC (based solely on the cover!) that she's the author. Just shows how much I admire her work.
Thank you Netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Walter Foster for this review copy. This is my honest opinion.
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Some step-by-step tutorials are given and the author also points the reader towards her youtube channel for more visual instruction and inspiration. There is a also a short history of sumi-e and some information on the materials involved and the different techniques and painting styles used, including how to hold the brush. It's obviously important An interesting and beautifully illustrated book which combines a traditional form of Japanese water colour painting with meditation and mindfulness.
Some step-by-step tutorials are given and the author also points the reader towards her youtube channel for more visual instruction and inspiration. There is a also a short history of sumi-e and some information on the materials involved and the different techniques and painting styles used, including how to hold the brush. It's obviously important to view this as a 'real' book or on a colour screen; it just doesn't have the same impact on a B&W e-reader. ...more
This book is an interesting take on art and mindfulness. Its rather like a Eastern version of zentangles. The author is a very talented painter and her paintings are tranquil and charming. I like how encouraging she was and the little tips she gives on each page. Most projects have step by step photos. My only wish is that I would like to see more close ups of brush strokes - what brush was u
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.This book is an interesting take on art and mindfulness. Its rather like a Eastern version of zentangles. The author is a very talented painter and her paintings are tranquil and charming. I like how encouraging she was and the little tips she gives on each page. Most projects have step by step photos. My only wish is that I would like to see more close ups of brush strokes - what brush was used and how to hold it. All in all a beautiful book.
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I received a free digital copy via NetGalley but the opinions expressed are my own.
Superspeed readers like me can read 150 - 200+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book … and many more today. LOL
I received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review.
From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do 😸.
Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting teaches you to create your own beautiful, Japanese-inspired ink
Superspeed readers like me can read 150 - 200+ pages/hour, so yes, I have read the book … and many more today. LOL
I received a temporary digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley, the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review.
From the publisher, as I do not repeat the contents or story of books in reviews, I let them do it as they do it better than I do 😸.
Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting teaches you to create your own beautiful, Japanese-inspired ink wash paintings while cultivating a mindful approach to making art.
Centuries ago, Buddhist monks used black ink and brushes to practise mindfulness and create gorgeously harmonious works of art called "Sumi-e paintings." The popularity of Sumi-e, or ink wash painting, continues to this day. Mindfulness remains an essential element of Sumi-e painting, allowing artists to focus on their surroundings, live in the moment, and feel present—thereby reducing their stress.
Walter Foster's new Mindful Artist series encourages you to enjoy working in your favourite media to create art from a reflective point of view—an inspiring, relaxing experience that emphasizes the creative process, rather than the end result. These books are designed to help you move past creative obstacles, as a perfectionist attitude toward making art or self-defeating concerns about your personal talent and abilities. These guides will not only help you stay mindful throughout the process but also to find personal meaning in the artwork you create.
Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting opens with an introduction explaining the links between mindfulness and Sumi-e and how they enhance one another. Sections on "The Four Treasures," as the tools needed for Sumi-e painting are called; brush strokes and painting techniques; and "The Four Gentlemen," or the most common subjects in Sumi-e painting, ensure that you have a solid background before getting started on the simple, approachable step-by-step painting projects. Throughout the book, you can find stunning full-page artwork, tips for remaining mindful while you work, creative prompts and exercises, inspirational ideas, and suggestions on how to add colour to black ink pieces.
(That is one looooong book description...) I liked learning how the painting style was used to enhance meditation and other relaxation techniques and the two different ways to Sumi-e paint, boneless and traditional were interesting to see how they differed. Until I get a chance to try and paint this way I am not sure which style I will try but the boneless method of going back and adding the details is what appeals to me as that is what I do with my acrylic paintings.
This would be a great book for someone who is looking into trying another way of watercolour painting - as is, I don't want to invest in different brushes, paints and paper/cavasses for a style of painting that I would not enjoy. (I cannot handle meditation or yoga so I am not sure if a meditative method of painting would work for me either - I hate people telling me to relax!) The book is well written and the illustrations greatly enhance the book - the examples are lovely as well.
As always, I try to find a reason to not rate with stars as I love emojis (outside of their incessant use by "Social Influencer Millennials" on Instagram and Twitter) so let's give it 🍣🍣🍣🍣
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Lovely illustrations and help to start this wonderful style of painting
#MindfulArtistSumiePainting #NetGalley
I've found the instructions to be clear and precise. Also due to a few other reviews I was very excited to discover that the author has a youtube channel and gives recommendations of other artists to follow. I'm very interested in exploring this form of art so I am avidly looking at the videos and other artists.
I am vert impressed by the thoughtfulness and thorough information that has gone into this
This is instructional artist book about Japanese Sumi-E art techniques is really quite wonderful.I've found the instructions to be clear and precise. Also due to a few other reviews I was very excited to discover that the author has a youtube channel and gives recommendations of other artists to follow. I'm very interested in exploring this form of art so I am avidly looking at the videos and other artists.
I am vert impressed by the thoughtfulness and thorough information that has gone into this book you will not be disappointed.
It has wonderful suggestions from paper and brush choices to how the ink is prepared and loaded onto the brushes.
Following the tutorials you will find page after page of beautiful art, hints, tips, and step-by-step instructions on how to get optimal results. I was very impressed. I recommend this book as a useful tool for anyone who is interested in painting asian inspired artwork.
This was so much fun and relaxing! The art is beautiful, delicate, and inspiring it exceeded my expectations on traditional Asian art.
The author will take you through selecting brushes and paints, and other materials needed.
I highly recommend this book I received this from NetGalley for an honest review and I am incredibly happy to find a new art form to embrace.
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This technique uses black ink on special paper in a particular manner.
Various layers and densities of colour brings things to life.
Master artist who has vast experience, tells few basics to interested amateurs artist.
She starts with small part of a picture and slowly depicts how to get various effects.
She has famous YouTube channel and travels a lot.
I liked picture of water spring and rocks around it.
Book is complete and provides details abo This is art book about Japanese Sumi-E art techniques.
This technique uses black ink on special paper in a particular manner.
Various layers and densities of colour brings things to life.
Master artist who has vast experience, tells few basics to interested amateurs artist.
She starts with small part of a picture and slowly depicts how to get various effects.
She has famous YouTube channel and travels a lot.
I liked picture of water spring and rocks around it.
Book is complete and provides details about starting materials and at end how to sign your creation.
A good book of young artists venturing into East Asian arts and painting.
Thanks publisher for review copy. ...more
In the introduction, the author says we will learn to express ourselves in the moment, without judgment. This was exactly was I was hoping to get from this book. However, I
I wanted to read this book because I am an aspiring artist and I love incorporating mindfulness with my art. I love oil and acrylic paint. I draw to become a better painter. I also love painting Icons because it is a transforming religious experience. When I saw the book "Mindful Artist" I thought it was a perfect fit for me.In the introduction, the author says we will learn to express ourselves in the moment, without judgment. This was exactly was I was hoping to get from this book. However, I didn't think much more was said about how to be more mindful while painting.
It starts with listing the supplies for Japanese brush painting. I already have a full set of acrylics, oils, I can pigments and specific brushes for each medium. I decided to use my oil and acrylic paints to begin the practice before I invested in the materials.
Virginia provides many beautiful paintings in the book, some with step by step instructions. She refers to her youtube page which has numerous videos on Japanese bush painting. I highly recommend her videos. However, I didn't notice any videos labeled specifically for mindfulness while painting.
The paintings start with simple leaves, branches, birds, grapes, flower and then progresses to full landscapes.
I received this galley from NetGalley.
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The instructions are clear and the samples and step by step guidelines is purely inspiring.
If you are thinking of a way to express yourself and relieve some of the tension of day to day life, this is a great way to channel the energy.
Note: I received an ARC for review and an honest and unbiased opinion.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the Advanced copy in exchange of my opinion.
Virginia Lloyd-Davies presents "Mindful Artist Sumi-e Painting. Master the meditative art of Japanese brush painting" which was published by Quarto-publishing Group - Walter in their series "Mindful Artist". The first part of the book contains the introduction included is information about tools, materials, the preparation which is needed to paint and an introduction to brushes, ink, and paper. The main part shows the reader how different subjects (Bamboo, Iris, In Learn to paint the Japanese way
Virginia Lloyd-Davies presents "Mindful Artist Sumi-e Painting. Master the meditative art of Japanese brush painting" which was published by Quarto-publishing Group - Walter in their series "Mindful Artist". The first part of the book contains the introduction included is information about tools, materials, the preparation which is needed to paint and an introduction to brushes, ink, and paper. The main part shows the reader how different subjects (Bamboo, Iris, Insects, ...) can be painted. The book closes with instructions how paintings can be signed and suggestions from the artist's library. The book does not only include the steps that show how to create the drawings, but also underlines the fact that Japanese Brush Painting has historically to do with mindfulness, starting already with the preparation of the ink.
I always found Japanese brush paintings interesting and I highly recommend this book to readers who are interested or want to try it themselves. It also makes a great gift for such artists. The book design presents itself with great photos and illustrations. The step-by-step tutorials will be a big help to those who want to learn this art or improve what they already know since Lloyd-Davies included good guidelines of how to start and how to put the figures together. She also included tips (e.g., about composition or how to create birds) and a recommended shopping list which helps the artist to have the necessary supplies at hand.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#MindfulArtistSumiePainting #NetGalley ...more
This book starts with a brief introduction about the origin and purpose of sumi-e. It has basic explanations about materials needed and how to use them. Most of the book focuses on teaching you how to paint different popular motives: bamboo, orchid, plum, chrysanthemum, iris, peony, insects, wisteria, grapes, lo
Sumi-E is a great way to practice mindful, meditative art through brush strokes and different dilutions of ink. Virginia Lloyd-Davies' book is educational but even more so, inspirational.This book starts with a brief introduction about the origin and purpose of sumi-e. It has basic explanations about materials needed and how to use them. Most of the book focuses on teaching you how to paint different popular motives: bamboo, orchid, plum, chrysanthemum, iris, peony, insects, wisteria, grapes, lotus, kingfisher, birds, rocks and waterfalls.
It has big and wonderful photos and step-by-step instructions. However, it does feel like you need to have prior experience in order to take full advantage of it. What helps for those who are absolute beginners, is that video links are provided. You can see how Virginia Lloyd-Davies actually performs those beautiful strokes. A video can sometimes say more than a thousand words.
I would recommend this book if you are familiar with the very basics of Sumi-E, if you want motivation and inspiration for your art, or if you have your ink and brush ready and want to relax while trying one or more beautiful motives from the book.
*I read an ARC and this was my honest opinion
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#MindfulArtistSumiePainting #NetGalley
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The book introduces it and the needed tools and materials, shows simple to quite intricate painting subjects, even goes through signing your work - all wrapped up in a beautifully edited and illustrated book.
I should point out that I didn't actually test out any of the methods covered, but still found it interesting to read and mostly look at.
This book is for anyone interested in the topic, curiou
Sumi-e painting is, or rather was, a new-to-me concept which initially drew me to this on NetGalley.The book introduces it and the needed tools and materials, shows simple to quite intricate painting subjects, even goes through signing your work - all wrapped up in a beautifully edited and illustrated book.
I should point out that I didn't actually test out any of the methods covered, but still found it interesting to read and mostly look at.
This book is for anyone interested in the topic, curious about the technique or just in need of inspiration from aesthetically pleasing art.
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For six years she was on the staff at the Findhorn Foundation in Scotland as the community's publicity director, where she also taught workshops in sumi-e, paired with Sacred Dance and Zen meditation.
Her YouTube painting channel (www.YouTube.com/virginiald) has topped four million views. Her website www.joyfulbrush.com features her flower, bird and landscape paintings, mini-tutorials and painting DVDs. She welcomes questions and suggestions for new blog posts. Her trademark is Joyful Brush®.
Because she has studied both sumi-e and Chinese brush art and travelled extensively in Europe and Asia, her personal style is an amalgam of those experiences. As a dancer and singer, the artist is frequently struck by the relationship of rhythm and melody in the execution of the brush stroke.
The artist lives in the USA, in the State of Virginia with her husband Dennis DiVito. She is an anal cancer survivor.
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Bamboo and Bird Chinese Brush Painting by Virginia Lloyd Davies
Source: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/45032388
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