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I’m excited to offer a new series of Sumi-e painting lessons at my studio in Haarlem!
Over four sessions, we’ll explore The Four Noble Ones (四君子)—a foundational theme in East Asian ink painting. These four plants each represent a season and embody timeless virtues:
Orchid (Spring): Elegance, humility, and nobility
Bamboo (Summer): Strength, resilience, and flexibility
Chrysanthemum (Autumn): Wisdom, longevity, and the courage to thrive in adversity
Plum Blossom (Winter): Perseverance and hope, blooming through the snow
Through these beautiful and symbolic motifs, you’ll learn essential brush techniques and deepen your understanding of traditional ink painting.
Already familiar with one of them? No problem—I’ll offer new compositions or color variations so you can continue to grow your practice.
Why join the full series?
Each lesson builds on the last—so by taking the full course, you’ll develop a deeper fluency in brush control, composition, and expressive technique. This series is designed to guide you through a thoughtful progression, allowing time for practice, feedback, and personal interpretation of each motif. While we begin with traditional black ink, the series also offers space to explore versions using watercolors/pigments, inviting a broader range of expression and experimentation.
Small Group, Personalized Guidance
This course is limited to 3–5 participants per group, allowing for plenty of personal feedback and focused instruction—ideal for beginners and continuing learners alike.
Soonhwa Kang
Visual artist and designer
"I am a multidisciplinary artist based in Haarlem, the Netherlands, working with ink and clay to explore cultural heritage, identity, and remembrance. As a third-generation Korean Japanese, my practice is deeply influenced by East Asian traditions. In my Sumi-e workshops, I share the philosophy and techniques of ink painting, guiding participants in mindful expression through brush and ink.”
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” It was a special experience for me. When you took my hand and we painted together, I felt how much tension there was in my body. I am longing to use the attitude you showed us in Sumi-e schilderen. And I am grateful! Thank you so much for your warmth, kindness and your expertise!”
Marjan Jaspers (Artist, Haarlem)
