Sumi-e Painting

The Four Gentlemen

Sumi-e (Japanese) or shuimo (Chinese) quick-stroke painting is based on Chinese calligraphy and was brought to Japan by Chinese Zen Buddhist monks. The Four Gentlemen are bamboo, orchid, chrysanthemum, and plum. They represent the four seasons and are traditionally the foundational subjects for those studying Asian brush painting. Studying these four subjects will help you familiarize yourself with all the calligraphy strokes that sumi-e painting is based on so that you can form an understanding of all the other painting subjects as well.

Bamboo

Symbolizing summer, vigorous growth, and upright posture and integrity, bamboo combines strength and beauty. To paint bamboo, hold the brush vertical to the paper and move in straight ...