plate no. 6419
Bamboo and Plum Blossoms
Xu Beihong, 1941
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic structure of the tree trunk and bamboo stalks.
- step 02
Apply a diluted wash of black ink to the background to create a subtle tone.
- step 03
Using a thicker ink, paint the tree trunk, varying the pressure to create darker and lighter areas.
- step 04
Add the branches, paying attention to their angles and thickness.
- step 05
Paint the bamboo leaves with light green ink, using quick, decisive strokes.
- step 06
Add the plum blossoms using white ink, creating small, delicate petals.
- step 07
Refine the details of the tree trunk and branches with darker ink.
- step 08
Add subtle shadows to the bamboo leaves to create depth.
color palette
primary · black ink · white ink · light green
secondary · gray
Mix black ink with water to create various shades of gray. Use very diluted black ink to achieve a light green tone.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·calligraphic brushstrokes
- ·layering
- ·varying ink density
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Using too much ink
- →Creating a flat, lifeless image
- →Ignoring the negative space
materials
surface · rice paper
required
- ·Chinese calligraphy brush
- ·black ink
- ·white ink
- ·light green watercolor
- ·rice paper
- ·water container
- ·palette
optional
- ·felt mat
- ·paperweight
- ·seal
Use a high-quality rice paper that can withstand multiple washes. Experiment with different types of brushes to find one that suits your style.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
