Meditative Oriental Ink Painting Retreat Day: The Spirit of Bamboo

Description

During this one day retreat, we will explore mindfulness, awareness and presence through meditation, Tai Chi  movement and Oriental brush practice. We will learn to trust the flow of ch'i (lifeforce) through our brush, and onto the paper, and likewise how we bring awareness and concentration into our everyday activity.

Bamboo is the "Noble Spirit" of the first painting topic in the traditional "Four Gentlemen" painting, when the yang energy starts to grow and lives are forming. Bamboo has always played a key role in Chinese culture and art. As the bamboo grows upright, weathering all conditions, it came to represent the perfect gentleman who always remains loyal. Wen Cheng Ming wrote:

What are included: 

• Simple sandwich, refreshments, tea and coffee

• All painting tools and materials will be provided onsite

Become a AoB Community Member to enjoy Membership Price of this event.

To help us relax our body and calm the mind, the session will start with some simple breathing exercise and relaxing Tai Chi movement.

During the brush practice, you will be introduced to the oriental painting materials. You will learn how to hold a brush, the body posture and how to relax your body with brush movement. You will learn how to paint bamboo and the spirit behind it, and explore various brush techniques and exercises supported with step-to-step guidance. At the end of the workshop, you will paint a bamboo piece with black ink on rice paper.