plate no. 5960
A bird with a white neck
Qi Baishi, 1928
some experience helpful
This painting offers practice in controlling ink wash values and capturing dynamic poses with expressive brushstrokes. Students will learn to simplify forms and create a sense of movement.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
5
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 4 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the bird and rock.
- step 02
Dilute ink to create a light wash for the rock and background.
- step 03
Use a darker ink to define the bird's body, starting with the head and back.
- step 04
Add details to the bird's face and beak, using varying ink densities.
- step 05
Paint the legs with quick, decisive strokes.
- step 06
Add the calligraphy with a fine brush and dark ink.
- step 07
Refine the edges and add subtle shading to the rock.
- step 08
Allow to dry completely.
color palette
primary · black ink · white (paper)
secondary · gray (diluted ink)
Vary the ink density with water to create different shades of gray. Use a very light wash for the background and a concentrated ink for the darkest areas.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·calligraphic brushstrokes
- ·simplified forms
- ·varying ink density
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Using too much water
- →Creating muddy washes
- →Losing the spontaneity of the brushstrokes
materials
surface · Rice paper
required
- ·Chinese ink stick or bottled ink
- ·Chinese calligraphy brushes (various sizes)
- ·Rice paper or watercolor paper
- ·Water container
- ·Felt mat or newspaper
- ·Palette or dish for mixing ink
optional
- ·Brush rest
- ·Paperweights
- ·Seal and ink pad (for signature)
Experiment with different types of rice paper to find one that suits your style. Use a soft brush for washes and a stiffer brush for details.
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