Hi Everyone! My next video on one of the Four Gentlemen “Plum Blossom Tree using Ink & Color” has been released!

CLICK HERE to see the video.

In this new video, I teach the basic introduction to this beloved tree, ending with 2 methods for compositions of branches.

Here is an overview of what is covered in the video from the “Description”:
(Below the video, click on SHOW MORE or the down arrow, if you are viewing it on a mobile device, to read the full video description.)

Plum Blossom Trees are one of the “Four Gentlemen” that all Chinese Brush Painting students must learn to paint. They have been enjoyed in Chinese culture, art & poetry for centuries. They bloom in winter before the snow melts, demonstrating perseverance & strength, as well as hope of the coming Spring. Arriving in time to help welcome the Chinese New Year, they symbolize beauty, purity & vitality of life.

Introduction
Plum Tree Structure
Flowers in Detail (ink & color)
Significance of the Branches
Essence of the Tree Trunk & Main Branches
Creating a Composition (contour style)
Creating a Composition (boneless style)
Thank you, Wrap up with Pictures & Tips

I begin the lesson by explaining the basic tree structure. I teach how to paint the individual flower components using 3 methods, side-by-side for easy comparison. As one of the “Four Gentlemen”, I explain the ancient symbolism of the branches & trunk, while showing you how to capture the essence of this majestic tree. Practicing these parts separately will help you put them together in a composition. It is common to paint only a section of a plum blossom tree. In this video, I demonstrate how to create simple branch compositions in both the contour & the boneless styles. As always following the lesson we have included tips, reminders & pictures.

In the next lesson, I will introduce “Rocks” – an important part of “Landscaping” as well as a supporting role in compositions such as birds & flowers.

Please be sure to ask any questions in the comments section!

With kindest wishes,
Vena

A special note to my dear friend, Cindy:
Thank you for graciously inviting us to your home so we could enjoy your wonderful garden & study the Plum Blossom trees in person!! We would like to express our sincerest gratitude for your generosity!

We hope the close-up pictures of live flowers will help students understand the shapes & capture the Essence of the beautiful plum flowers, branches & trunk in their paintings.

With kindest wishes,
Vena & My Team