What's the course about?

I'm inviting you to dive into the amazing world of Japanese painting, where we'll explore two styles: Sumi-e and Bokusaiga.

Sumi-e is a monochrome "ink painting" on thin rice paper, aiming to instantly capture an image without a preliminary sketch.

Bokusai-ga is a painting with color, where mineral paints are added to ink to emphasize the emotional impression of the subject.

This course includes floral themes arranged in order of increasing complexity, a gradual increase in elements, and a review of techniques covered. The paintings in the course will feature a concise composition and space that convey the spirit of the flower rather than its botanical accuracy, which is important in the Eastern tradition.

Besides that, the course will introduce you to the symbolism and philosophy of themes in the context of Japanese worldview. After all, understanding cultural nuances and the meaning of the theme will help us create a concise artistic image and immerse ourselves in it.

Who will benefit from the course

This course is perfect for those who are passionate about Eastern culture and want to dive deeper into its art. Studying Japanese painting will let you feel the spirit of the East and capture its unique aesthetics.

For those who want to master new techniques and authentic Eastern materials like rice paper, pine soot ink, mineral paints, and special brushes, which will help you create unique paintings.

For creative folks, including those just starting out in art. You'll broaden your perspective on art, find new ways to express yourself, and dive into harmony. Here, you'll discover unique techniques and tools, even without experience, especially in Eastern painting.

Course program

Lesson 1

Introduction

Main course info, meet the instructor.

Lesson 2

Lesson on Eastern Painting. What is Sumi-e and Bokusai?

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the types of visual arts in Japan and their differences;
  • learn about my creative work.

Lesson 3

Aesthetic Categories of Japanese Sumi-e Painting

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the concepts of Yugen and Wabi Sabi through classic examples of Japanese painting;
  • learn about the interconnection of seasonal tradition, painting, and haiku poetry;
  • get acquainted with the aesthetic category "Mono-no Aware" - the charm of things;
  • understand how shades of monochrome images transition into the realm of feelings and are perceived as colors.

Lesson 4

Overview of Artistic Materials

In this lesson, I will introduce you to the artistic materials used in Eastern painting.

Lesson 5

«Sunflower»

Duration ~ 1 hour 30 minutes

Sunflowers in Japanese painting are often depicted by artists as a symbol of sunny joy, beauty, and aspiration for enlightenment. Let's learn to paint this positive flower!

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of the flower in Japanese culture;
  • learn the features of working with ink in the Sumi-e technique;
  • practice the techniques for painting the center, petals, sepals, leaves, and stem of the sunflower;
  • learn to assemble the studied elements into a flower and create a concise composition.

Lesson 6

«Bindweed»

Duration ~ 1 hour 05 minutes

Bindweed is incredibly multifaceted and can convey the uniqueness of each season: the freshness and tenderness of spring, the greenery of summer, autumn hues, and winter stillness. Let your creativity bloom along with this flower.

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of bindweed in Japanese culture;
  • learn the features of working with color in the Bokusai technique;
  • practice the technique of painting petals with a spot and assemble strokes into a flower;
  • master the technique of painting a bud, elegant vine, and leaves;
  • compose the studied elements into a concise composition.

Lesson 7

«Chrysanthemum»

Duration ~ 1 hour 15 minutes

In 1183, the chrysanthemum became the official national flower of Japan. Its image can be found on the coat of arms and even on the country's coins. In this lesson, we will unveil the mysteries of this flower through our own artistic perspective!

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of the flower in Japanese culture;
  • learn about the features of working with contour lines and applying color to the contour flower;
  • practice the technique of painting petals and assemble them into a flower;
  • practice the technique of painting chrysanthemum leaves, their veins, and stem;
  • learn to create a composition of several chrysanthemum flowers and buds.

Lesson 8

«Azalea»

Duration ~ 1 hour 25 minutes

In Japan, the azalea is not just a flower, but a harbinger of happiness and protection from negativity. In this lesson, you will create your own image of harmony and protection by painting this beautiful flower.

In this lesson, you will:

  • practice the technique of painting a petal with a spot and assemble strokes into a flower, mastering the contour technique for painting stamens;
  • learn to create a lush inflorescence of flowers and work with tone;
  • master the technique of painting azalea branches and leaves;
  • learn to combine studied elements into a completed flower;
  • create a composition of three inflorescences of different tones.

Lesson 9

«Peach»

Duration ~ 1 hour

The image of the peach often symbolizes the desire for a long and healthy life. Therefore, I invite you to learn to paint this wonderful flower to attract happiness and longevity into your life.

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of the peach in Japanese culture;
  • reinforce your knowledge about the features of working with color in the Bokusai technique;
  • practice the technique of painting a petal with a spot and assemble strokes into a flower;
  • practice the technique of depicting buds, stamens, sepals, leaves, branches, and assemble groups of flowers;
  • learn to combine studied elements into a concise composition.

Lesson 10

«Wisteria»

Duration ~ 1 hour 25 minutes

Wisteria is a true long-liver, living up to 100 years. It has bright, fragrant flowers that are associated with the joy of spring's arrival. In this lesson, we will learn to notice the subtle nuances of color.

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of wisteria in Japanese culture;
  • practice the technique of painting a petal with a spot, assemble strokes into flowers, and flowers into inflorescences;
  • practice the technique of painting leaves and elegant vines;
  • learn to combine studied elements into a flower and create a complex composition of several wisteria inflorescences;
  • expand your tonal range to create an effect of depth in the image.

Lesson 11

«Clematis»

Duration ~ 1 hour 10 minutes

In Japanese culture, clematis symbolizes the importance of finding beauty and harmony within oneself, regardless of external circumstances, as its flowers can be very attractive yet at the same time poisonous.

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of clematis in Japanese culture;
  • practice the technique of painting a petal with a spot, stamens using gold paint, and a bud (combination of spot and line);
  • practice the technique of painting elegant vines and leaves using contour technique;
  • learn to create a complex composition with several flowers and buds;
  • reinforce the concept of tonal rhythms.

Lesson 12

«Anemones»

Duration ~ 1 hour 25 minutes

Anemones are among the most beautiful flowers on Earth, existing for over 65 million years. They are associated with fragility and the brevity of life. Their delicate and tender petals reflect this idea of transience.

In this lesson, you will:

  • get acquainted with the symbolism of the anemone flower in Japanese culture;
  • practice the technique of painting a petal with a spot and assemble strokes into a flower;
  • practice the technique of painting stamens, a bud, sepals, and a flower stem;
  • learn to assemble a flower from studied elements;
  • create a complex composition of several anemone flowers of different shades.

Lesson 13

Conclusion

Our journey into the world of Japanese painting has come to an end.

Well then? Let's summarize and listen to the guidance for further creative development!

Course Instructor Alexander Vasiliev

Course Expert Alexander Vasiliev

I have been working in the technique of Japanese sumi-e painting since 2009.

Representative of the Russian branch of the International Association of Sumi-e Artists (Tokyo, Japan).

Author of a book series published by EKSMO about the art of sumi-e.

Member of the International Chinese Calligraphic Art and Ink Painting Artist Society (Tokyo, Japan).

Since 2011, I have been actively teaching in an offline format.

MaterialsFor the course you will need:

1. Chinese or Japanese ink.

2. Rice paper (Chinese or Japanese), as well as rice paper for calligraphy in rolls. A4 and A3 formats.

3. Chinese brushes: outline (fine), medium 3 cm, large 4-5 cm. It's preferable to choose brushes made of dark bristles.

4. Japanese or Chinese mineral paints, you can buy a set or single colors in tubes of Chinese paints. The following colors will be needed for the course: pink, blue, purple, light blue, yellow, red (optional).

5. A felt or wool mat as a base for the rice paper.

6. Two white saucers as a palette.

7. A cup of water.

8. Napkins.

Tariffs

«I Draw It Myself»
  • 8 elegant paintings in Japanese style
  • 13 lessons: theory + practice + art life hacks
  • NEW! Machine translated subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Portuguese, Hungarian, Chinese, Indonesian
  • Course Unfreeze - the chance to start learning whenever it suits you.
  • The opportunity to watch the analysis of other participants' artworks
  • Lifetime access to course materials
  • Artworks analysis for 60 days
  • Personal one-hour online consultation with the course expert
200 $
$
«With Support»
  • 8 elegant paintings in Japanese style
  • 13 lessons: theory + practice + art life hacks
  • NEW! Machine translated subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Portuguese, Hungarian, Chinese, Indonesian
  • Course Unfreeze - the chance to start learning whenever it suits you.
  • The opportunity to watch the analysis of other participants' artworks
  • Lifetime access to course materials
  • Artworks analysis for 60 days
  • Personal one-hour online consultation with the course expert
250 $
$
«VIP»
  • 8 elegant paintings in Japanese style
  • 13 lessons: theory + practice + art life hacks
  • NEW! Machine translated subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Polish, Portuguese, Hungarian, Chinese, Indonesian
  • Course Unfreeze - the chance to start learning whenever it suits you.
  • The opportunity to watch the analysis of other participants' artworks
  • Lifetime access to course materials
  • Artworks analysis for 60 days
  • Personal one-hour online consultation with the course expert
500 $
$

Frequently Asked Questions

I can't draw at all. I've always thought that I'm not gifted. No talent. Should I take the course?

Of course! Anyone can learn to draw! It’s just a skill that develops with practice.

Our Japanese painting course is structured from simple to complex, so that anyone, even those with no experience, can complete it.

During the course, you will gradually build your skills through practice while creating paintings.

If you have a plan without feedback, it will depend on your personal pace as you go through the lessons.

With feedback plans, we actively go through lessons for two months from the moment you «unfreeze» the course.

In general, I recommend taking the course at a leisurely pace. Enjoy the process more.

Yes, this course will be useful for both beginners and those continuing their education.

It’s never too late to learn to draw. In our school, 30% of students are over 50 years old. They happily draw, develop their skills, creative thinking, and feel young in spirit and mind!

At the end of the lesson, you will post a photo of your work. The instructor will have the opportunity to leave a text, graphic (annotations on the drawing), and audio comment regarding your work.

At the bottom of the final lesson, there will be a comments section where you can ask any questions about the training.

Do you have any questions about the course?

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