Art: Sumi-e Ink Painting

Year 9 students at St Andrews International School Bangkok practice the ancient Japanese art of Sumi-e. See the results here.

In the spirit of this month’s High School theme and IB Learner Profile, Year 9 students have been creating art that reflects the balanced spiritualism of Zen Buddhism. They have been practising the ancient art of sumi-e, or Japanese monochrome ink painting, in which subjects are painted with black ink in a range of gradations ranging from pure black to the lightest shades by dissolving ink in water. The origin of sumi-e paintings is in Chinese calligraphy, which can be noted by the similar gestural brush strokes. The results, seen below, demonstrate spontaneity and a refreshing simplicity. The work is part of a creative investigation into the art and culture of Japan, which will eventually lead to group textiles work.

Artist of the Week

Our artist of the week is Year 12 student Yu Jin. Her artwork explores the interaction between people and animals and the impact that human activities have on habitats and wildlife. This painting, depicting delicate shades of colour, will be part of a triptych which will feature birds, animal body organs and bones and which will challenge the apparent tranquility of this piece. The contrast between the smooth tones of colour of the human figure and the textures and colorful insects was skillfully achieved and adds to the mood of the art piece.