Painting Herons and Cranes

 
Japanese ink painting retreat with Talia 
Location to be confirmed early July
Tuesday 23rd  to Saturday 27th of September 2025
10:30am - 2:30pm 
 
Join Talia for a five days  of Japanese ink painting retreat-like at her new studio.
 
Inspired by the long standing Japanese tradition of painting the white heron and the majestic crane, in this workshop you will learn to paint these water birds alongside reeds and various other water plants. You will be guided into the realm of Japanese ink painting, known as sumie or suibokuga, and explore your creative artist way.
 
Studio opens at 10:00am and workshop begins at 10:30. We will work till 2:30pm. 
 
All basic tools and materials will be supplied for the duration of your practice. You are invited to bring your own kit, and you will have the opportunity to purchase a selection of quality tools and materials at the studio.
 
Each day will begin with various brush practices and learning how to paint and create your own compositions. Special practices from masters of Japanese ink painting - Hokusai, Jackucho and Hirsohige. Work with different types of paper and brushes in the traditional Japanese way. Each lesson will be accompanied with worksheets for you to form your own booklet  manual to take away. Light refreshment will be available for you throughout the day.
 
All levels are welcomed, and up to 5-6 students.
A list of local hotels at the village and help with transportation is available.
 
What to look for :
 
Introduction to Japanese brush, ink, paper, colours and the artist tool set.
Preparing the artist workspace, and making your own ink.
Learning how to hold the brush, body posture and mindset.
Guidance on brush strokes, lines and marks to understand the way of ink, brush and paper.
Learning various painting techniques such as line work, free style (mokutse), dry brush and washes.
Practicing active meditation with your painting journey as part of empowering your artistic creative self.
Observing skills and sketching practice, finding inspiration in the outside the studio.
Viewing and learning about ink paintings by various Japanese ink masters, from the rich history of Japanese art and Talia's research and library.
Understanding in depth themes on composition, mounting, signing and sealing your artwork.
Create your own original one to five completed ink paintings.
 
 
Included with your fees:
 
Four hours tuition each day with Talia
All tools and materials supplied
The opportunity to purchase your own tool set, including brushes, paper, ink and seals for future practice. All tool sets are made in Japan and curated by Talia.
Worksheets and written notes for you to form your own booklet manual to take away.
Tea/coffee and light refreshments
For your free time, Talia can give you tips on exploring the beauty of nature around the studio. To include natural waterpools, mountain hikes, river walks, hidden beaches and local farmer markets.
A list of nearby the studio accommodation can be provided upon request. Please be as prompt in booking as nearby hotels are independant and do get booked early.
Plus recommended list of optional tools and materials you may wish to bring with you.
20% complementary discount on all of ArtBrush online school for Japanese ink painting courses.
 
 
'If it had no voice
the heron might disappear -
this morning's snow'
 
                        Chiyo (1703-1775)