plate no. 1266
Crabapple Blossoms
Chang Dai-chien, 1965
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Prepare your paper and dilute your ink to various shades of gray.
- step 02
Lightly sketch the basic structure of the branches with a soft pencil.
- step 03
Using a fine brush, apply the darkest ink to the main branches, varying the pressure to create thicker and thinner lines.
- step 04
Add leaves using a broader brush, employing different shades of gray for depth.
- step 05
Mix a light pink color and carefully paint the blossoms, using small, controlled strokes.
- step 06
Add details to the blossoms with a darker pink or red.
- step 07
Include the calligraphy and seals, if desired, practicing beforehand.
- step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.
color palette
primary · black ink · light pink
secondary · gray · red
Achieve various shades of gray by diluting black ink with water. Mix a light pink by combining white with a touch of red.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·varying brush pressure
- ·dry brush
- ·controlled strokes
- ·gradation
common pitfalls
- →Using too much water, causing the ink to bleed excessively.
- →Applying too much pressure, resulting in overly dark and heavy lines.
- →Overworking the painting, losing the delicate and spontaneous feel.
- →Inaccurate proportions of branches and blossoms.
materials
surface · Rice paper or watercolor paper
required
- ·Chinese painting brushes (fine and medium)
- ·Black ink
- ·Watercolor paper or rice paper
- ·Water container
- ·Palette or mixing surface
- ·Red watercolor or ink
- ·White watercolor or gouache
optional
- ·Ink stone
- ·Felt mat
- ·Weights for paper
Experiment with different types of paper to see how they affect the ink flow. Use good quality brushes for better control.
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