Sumi-e Exhibition: East Asian Brush Painting at The Ringling Museum

August 28, 2024 | Sarasota

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art proudly announces Sumi-e Exhibition: East Asian Brush Painting, presented by the Sarasota Chapter of the Sumi-e Society of America. This exhibition, on view at The Ringling’s Community Gallery in the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center for Asian Art, celebrates the ancient art form of Sumi-e, also known as East Asian Brush Painting. The exhibition showcases the refined techniques and deep cultural significance of this traditional Japanese art, as practiced by the talented members of the Sarasota Chapter.

Sumi-e Exhibition: East Asian Brush Painting is a captivating display that invites viewers to explore the harmony and balance inherent in this art form. The exhibition features 44 beautifully painted shikishi boards, each curated to reflect the philosophy and traditions of Sumi-e painting. Visitors will gain insight into the materials, techniques, and meditative process of creating art with black ink on white paper, which dates back 6,000 years.

“I am drawn to the liveness and freshness of the brushstroke, the expression and energy of the mark left on the paper,” says Sarasota chapter member and artist Parma Hanan. This sentiment is echoed by artist Joan Landrey, who reflects, “My journey into Sumi-e first began with a strong interest in calligraphy and beautiful writing, which in turn led to an interest in the simplistic beauty of black ink on paper in Sumi-e. I find joy in continuing to pursue and learn about the art of ink pictures.” Marilyn Offer, who has been painting in the Sumi-e style for over two decades, describes the practice as “a peaceful and grounding way of painting.”

The Sarasota Chapter of the Sumi-e Society of America has been a vibrant part of the local arts community since its founding in 1990. This exhibition not only represents the collective efforts of its members but also highlights the diversity and dedication of artists committed to preserving and advancing this timeless art form.

“The Ringling is delighted to support the Sumi-e Society,” says Rhiannon Paget, PhD, Curator of Asian Art. “Their exhibition demonstrates the power of sumi-e to inspire artists all over the world, millennia after the first brushstroke was made.”

Sumi-e Exhibition: East Asian Brush Painting is currently on display at The Ringling’s Community Gallery from August 29 through December 2, 2024. Exhibitions at The Ringling’s Community Gallery are always free to visit; visitors can check in at the museum’s Visitor Pavilion upon arrival and ask for a Community Gallery wristband. For additional information and hours, visit ringling.org.