Chinese Brush Painting

Chinese painting is one of the oldest painting styles still used today.

The subject is usually nature:

 Bamboo

Flowers

 Birds

Fish

 

Panda Bears

The "Six Principles" for Chinese Brush Painting

1.  Your state of mind in shown in each brush stroke.
If you are feeling calm and peaceful your brushstrokes will be calm and peaceful.  If you are nervous or stressed your brushstrokes may look different.

2.  Using your brush correctly is very important.

3. Look at your subject and only add the most important things.  Not many details.

4.  Colors don't need to be correct.

5.  Keep most of your paper white so the picture is simple.  Avoid symmetry.  (Things being the same on both sides)

6.  Look at and copy the work of the masters.  (People who are experts at Chinese brush painting)


You can try Chinese Brush Painting.  Children all over the world practice this style.

 

Video:(start around 3:20)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_94fxvcDTY

You can look at this painting and try to copy it.
Write your title vertically.
Add your initials (this is called your “chop”) at the bottom with a red marker.

After students have completed their paintings, encourage them to discuss the differences between copying to perfect your technique vs. self-expression. Ask your students which method they prefer and why.