Original Painting Landscape Ink Tree Black & White

Ink Play Series (landscape)

 

A little update added this ink painting (appreciation of Sumi and Chinese Brush painting techniques) to the shop yesterday and sold a little ACEO.  That's a good start to the week. 

 

Information regarding treasuries:

I try to feature treasuries on the blog when possible and I'm always grateful for a highlight.  I know it takes effort for curator to put a collection together.  So, another method I found was posting treasuries to Pinterest this will recognize the curators and their efforts.

 







Just a Little Soot and Water

This is a print of one of my ink brush painting landscapes. I have a strong regard for calligraphers and Chinese and Japanese brush painting techniques. So when I’m in a peaceful mood I bring out my ink brushes and I wonder into that beautiful art form. 

Personally I use liquid modern day sumi ink but I’m reminded that in ancient times master calligraphers utilized soot and animal glue. It's amazing what past and current artists could do with soot, measured strokes, and a flick of the wrist.  

See some additional contemporary ink favorites from other artists.... 

Original Ink Paintings by JC Strong

It's been a busy week and working on these ink paintings was cathartic. It brings me back to the basics of making marks on paper.

I'm a big fan of traditional Chinese and Japanese brush painting on "rice" paper, created with a ground ink stick. My preference is liquid sumi ink and working on 140 lb watercolor paper.

These paintings are a combination of memory and enjoying a day at the park between rainy days in California.

Original Watercolor and Ink Painting by JC Strong

Most of my flower painting inspirations come from my walks around the neighborhood. I take my camera and just photograph my favorites . . . The idea for the painting will stay with me and then be written/sketched in my journal. Many times a flower will remind me of a person or a current theme. Some flowers are exuberant others are sad but they are usually always expressive . . .

I was asked about the tools and materials I use in my work. I’ll discuss my tool’s today. My favorite tools are an“Orchid Bamboo” medium and small brush. They are a great utility brush for my ink work. The point makes great calligraphy strokes and holds the ink like a mini well. Usually for the body of the flowers I’ll use soft round water color brushes. Good brushes will hold their point over a long time if they are pampered and help with the painting process.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox said "A weed is but an unloved flower." Well I hope all our flowers are loved, have a great weekend.

Original Watercolor and Ink Landscape Painting by JC Strong

This is an original watercolor and ink painting posted in my shop yesterday. It's actually cliffs near my home. I used mainly ink. It has an Asian inspired influence.

I think it has something to do with the calligraphic strokes and the way the ink loads in the brushes. My acrylic paintings take a totally different look. I like the diversity in styles and medium.

I attended the Sawdust Art Festival and Art A Fair. Both venues have some wonderful artist's and their work.

At the Art A Fair, I saw some fantastic examples of Chinese brush painting in a small format by "Debbie's Art Studio." Her work was peaceful, organic and expressive. All done in a small format.

If you're in So. California stop by Laguna Beach, and you'll see some wonderful art this summer.

Original Watercolor and Ink Painting

I love the vitality of ink on paper. The roots appear to be in Asian calligraphy. Master Calligraphers can sometimes speak volumes with just one stroke.

While I was painting this flower I thought of ancient calligraphers and the beauty of Georgia O'Keefe floral painting.

Original Watercolor and Ink Floral Still Life

These are examples of watercolor and ink paintings I completed today. The ink I'm using has a real organic feel to it.

It allows me to make the calligraphy strokes and shading within the leaves...