All posts by admin

Drawing the Line

15th February 2021 admin

Enjoying the zoom Life Drawing class with the lovely Caroline Deane. First efforts with charcoal, reed pan, charcoal and ink wash:

Class 2:

Hen How

12th January 2021 admin

I demonstrated how to paint cock and hen recently. I enjoy exploring different techniques for the same composition.

Calligraphy and seals need to be added.

Also working on still life composition – not right yet – and calligraphy practice.

The calligraphy is a poem by Huang Binhong: Wei and Meng’s five-character poems make a clear chant; Jin and Tang eight methods become calligraphy

Year of the Mouse

14th December 2020 admin

As it is the Year of the Rodent, mice have invaded my Christmas cards.

Leap to the Sky

1st December 2020 admin

Finally managed a bit of calligraphy practice. I enjoyed this seal script. This phrase says A Dragon leaping at the Gate of Heaven, a Tiger crouching at the Phoenix Tower. It was used by Emperor Wu of Liang to describe the skill of the acknowledged Sage of Calligraphy, Wang Xizhi.

Gallery additions

6th September 2020 admin

Some more old and new paintings finally mounted.

I love the roofscapes of Anhui province.

And I am fascinated by ancient Chinese vessels. Silver Moon is a free interpretation of Warring States silver and gold inlay.

Chinese Culture

27th August 2020 admin

I am enjoying live Zoom Chinese Culture seminars with Madison Plantier.
We’ve explored Chinese poetry, learnt the right way to prepare tea, and drooled over the Eight Great Cuisines! And there is lots more to learn about.
Madison was a guide on the trip to China that I did last year (including Suzhou, Hongcun, and good food). She has a wide knowledge of Chinese history and customs.