faq
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ABOUT JAPANESE BRUSH PAINTING
Q: WHAT IS JAPANESE BRUSH PAINTING (SUMI-E)? A: Sumi-e painting is an ancient art form that originated in China around 4,000 B.C. Nearly 2,000 years ago, it was introduced to Japan (and Korea) by highly disciplined monks trained in the art of concentration, clarity, and simplicity through Zen Buddhism. This art form isn’t about realistic representation, but rather an illustration of the painter’s personal perception of the subject. Traditional Sumi-e motifs include landscapes, bamboo, flowers, birds, and animals.
Q: HOW IS JAPANESE BRUSH PAINTING DIFFERENT FROM OTHER TYPES OF WATERCOLOUR OR INK PAINTING? A: Sumi-e is created on very delicate, and thin, highly absorbent rice paper, which makes it one of the most challenging painting techniques. Even very experienced Sumi-e artists cannot fully control the water and ink, which is what distinguishes this art form: each painting contains a unique element of "accidental beauty”. A Sumi-e painting is nearly impossible to replicate due to the variations in shades and the limited controllability of the ink and water flow. Oil painting, for example, is very forgiving and allows you to fix strokes repeatedly, whereas Sumi-e painting does not allow for this.
ARTWORK PURCHASE & CUSTOMISATION
Q: CAN I BUY A PRINT OF YOUR ARTWORK, OR DO YOU ONLY SELL ORIGINAL PAINTINGS? A: Yes, I offer limited edition prints of most of my works.
Q: HOW CAN I PURCHASE YOUR ARTWORK? A: You can contact me through the contact form on my website.
Q: WHAT IS THE TURNAROUND TIME FOR A CUSTOM COMMISSION? A: It depends on the subject matter. Kindly contact me for an estimate.
SHIPPING & DELIVERY
Q: WHAT IS THE SHIPPING PROCESS FOR ARTWORK? A: Once a piece is selected, I will assess and send a quote for the shipping costs based on the destination and size.
Q: DO YOU OFFER INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING? A: Yes, international shipping is available.
Q: HOW IS MY ARTWORK PACKAGED TO ENSURE SAFE DELIVERY? A: I work with an experienced shipping company that professionally packages and insures each piece to ensure safe delivery.
Q: WHAT ARE THE SHIPPING FEES, AND ARE THERE ADDITIONAL CHARGES? A: Shipping fees vary depending on the size, weight, and destination of the artwork. Any additional charges will be communicated upfront.
FRAMING & CARE
Q: DO YOUR PAINTINGS COME WITH A FRAME? A: Some original paintings are already framed. I also offer custom framing for both originals and prints at an additional cost.
Q: HOW DO I PRESERVE THE QUALITY OF MY JAPANESE BRUSH PAINTING OVER TIME? A: To preserve the painting, avoid exposing it to extreme humidity, direct sunlight, or dust. When professionally framed, the artwork is well protected and should retain its quality over time.
EXHIBITIONS & COLLABORATIONS
Q: WHERE CAN I SEE YOUR ARTWORK IN PERSON? A: Please contact me through my website to inquire about viewings.
Q: DO YOU OFFER VIRTUAL ART SHOWS OR ONLINE EXHIBITIONS? A: Not at the moment, but I may offer them in the near future.