Suminagashi: An Art of Irreplaceable Moments

Originating in Japan more than 800 years ago, Suminagashi literally means “floating ink.” This elegant technique was first enjoyed in the Heian period (794–1185) as a courtly pastime, where artists and nobles would marvel at the delicate, ever-changing patterns created on water.

In this class, you will learn how to gently drop ink onto the surface of water and guide the ripples with your breath, brushes, or even the subtlest movements of air. The resulting designs are then transferred onto washi paper and even onto fabric items such as handkerchiefs, creating one-of-a-kind works of art.

Because the process is simple, the class is fun for a variety of ages and skill levels. Each print captures a fleeting moment, never to be repeated, embodying the Japanese aesthetic of impermanence and beauty in transience. Children aged 8 and above are also welcome to participate.

Whether you are interested in traditional arts, meditation through creative practice, or simply wish to explore a new form of expression, this class offers a unique opportunity to connect with history while creating your own modern interpretations of this ancient craft.

About the Instructor

Ayakoh Furukawa (a.k.a Ayakoh Furukawa-Leonart) is a visual artist with a unique background who has mastered Japanese calligraphy and western painting. She studied with Buddhist calligrapher Sougyu Kashimoto in Osaka, Japan. Currently, she is a member of the Metro New York Sumi-e Society. Besides the RESOBOX Sumi-e class, she had numerous teaching experiences at educational and cultural institutions such as Lyceum Kennedy Japanese School and the Japan Society Summer program. She also taught Sumi-e at numerous events to help in the public in the understanding of Japanese culture. She moved to New York in 2000 and studied Asian Art History at Hunter College, the City University of New York where she received the Master of Fine Art of Studio Art. Her paintings and drawings have been exhibited internationally at numerous established art institutions. Her deep knowledge of both Western and Asian Arts offers an enjoyable experience of Japanese art of Sumi-e.

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