plate no. 1404
Likvidambra Taiwan and the cicada
Qi Baishi, 1950
some experience helpful
This painting helps students practice brush control and varying ink densities to create depth and texture. It also encourages observation of natural forms and simplification of details.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 4 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the leaves, branch, and insects.
- step 02
Prepare diluted washes of red and brown ink.
- step 03
Apply the lightest washes to the leaves, building up color gradually.
- step 04
Add the red veins to the leaves with a slightly darker red ink.
- step 05
Paint the branch with bold strokes of black ink, varying the pressure for thickness.
- step 06
Carefully paint the cicada and mantis, using fine lines and diluted ink for details.
- step 07
Add the spiky seed pod with short, textured strokes.
- step 08
Allow to dry completely.
color palette
primary · red ink · black ink
secondary · brown ink · white (of the paper)
Dilute the red and black inks with water to create a range of values. Mix a small amount of brown with red to create a more muted tone for the leaves.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·varying line weight
- ·controlled brushstrokes
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Using too much ink at once
- →Not allowing layers to dry
- →Inaccurate proportions of the insects
materials
surface · Rice paper
required
- ·Chinese painting brushes (fine and medium)
- ·Black ink
- ·Red ink
- ·Brown ink
- ·Water
- ·Ink stone or palette
- ·Rice paper or watercolor paper
optional
- ·Felt mat
- ·Weights to hold paper
- ·Reference images of cicadas and mantises
Use a good quality rice paper that can handle multiple washes. Practice your brushstrokes on scrap paper before painting on the final surface.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
