Chinese ink brush drawing
Ink brush painting is a traditional East Asian art form that uses water-based ink and a brush to create expressive, fluid images with a focus on simplicity, flow, and mark-making.
This workshop introduces participants to the pleasure of working with Chinese ink. It is an elegant and responsive medium explored through both drawing and painting. Designed for beginners, it offers a relaxed space to connect as a group while discovering an ancient skill.
You’re welcome to follow your own rhythm or start with a few basic marks I can guide you through. Before long, you’ll be building an image led by your intuition and observation.
It’s both a moment for personal creative discovery and a chance to share in the quiet energy of making something together.
workshop overview
Duration: 3 hours
Group Size: 4 to 15 participants
Location: at my studio for small groups in Antwerp, private homes, office meeting rooms, rented events space of your choosing. All locations to be accessible by public transport
Moderator: Henry Whysall , artist with 25 years experience in painting, drawing, art history, design and architecture
Languages: native English, fluent French, very good understanding of Dutch, working Italian and Spanish
learning outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will:
Have a good introduction to an ancient medium
Gain confidence in observational drawing and brush work
Enjoy the challenge of sensuous mark making and the art of ‘less is more’
Complete a drawing or painting that encompasses new skills
workshop structure
1. Welcome & Introduction (10 - 15 min)
Brief presentation on the traditions of ink painting
Display Some examples throughout the ages
Overview of materials and brief outline of intention with questions
2. Drawing Session (45 mins – 1 hour)
Warm-up exercises, choosing a subject, fitting your image to the page
Guided drawing on paper, quick sketches
One-on-one support and feedback as drawing progresses
3. Painting Session (1.5 hours)
Moving to ink brush work from quick sketches
How to succinctly record what you see
Independent work and one to one guidance
4. Closing & Sharing (15 mins)
Informal group sharing of work
Who likes what and why, led by group
Round up questions with possible discussion on the next steps or continuing practice
materials
All materials can be provided, or a materials list can be sent in advance if participants prefer to bring their own. Typical materials include:
Drawing paper & pencils
Very good quality paper to support ink work
Chinese ink
Brushes, cloths, beakers
Images, flowers and objects to draw from
Checking lighting and choice of music (optional)
pricing
Base fee for smaller group, 4 - 8 participants - €300
Base fee for larger group, 9 - 15 participants - €400
Materials, €20 per person
All workshops and team building sessions are tailored made. Prices may vary.
general
I’ll arrive 45 minutes before the session to prepare and set up the space. I recommend that participants arrive around 15 minutes early to settle in and make the most of the experience.
We’ll begin with a brief group tidy-up at the end of the session—this is part of normal studio practice. I’ll take care of the remaining clean-up afterwards.
contact me
Get in touch anytime with your questions or to make a booking for this workshop.
Henry Whysall studio
+32 (0)467 01 10 08