Eastern art meets Western art. This is the the groundbreaking concept of this exciting DVD. It features Bill s methods for merging the Eastern techniques and concepts of the Sumi brush and reed pen with the unique ideas, e... more »xpressiveness and freedom of contemporary abstraction. Bill, who is both a well-rounded and experienced artist and musician, shows how Sumi brush painting is like a musical performance. He shows us how to handle and care for and use these wonderful traditional tools that are so well suited to the art and artists of today. Bill shows how they can be used with all water media and discusses the differences and similarities in methods of handling, mixing, and using Sumi ink, acrylic ink, watercolors, and acrylic gouache. Bill shows convincingly some of the limitless possibilities and aesthetic power that reside in these unassuming and ancient painting tools. Simple and enlightening demonstrations, explanations, and exercises include: Sumi brush virtues, principles and concepts; Loading the brush; Ways of holding and the manipulating the brush; Developing brush sensitivity and ink awareness; Interaction between brush, ink and paper; Controlling brush shape and edge; Developing eye-hand control; Variation of texture and tone; Use of speed and tempo; Free brush movement; Dry brush; Zen circles (Enso), Building brush technique; Limitless brushstrokes; Brush presses, taps, splatters, splashes, squeezes, flicks, twists and touches; Spontaneity and improvisation; Effective use of contrast and color relationship; Layering; Reed pen technique; Free form mixed media abstraction; Finishing touches. Beginners as well as experienced artists and teachers will find this a stimulating and enjoyable journey into original and essential territory. Says Bill, Explore these techniques. They will help you to find real power and joy in your art. Please see Bill's Sumi Brushes, Reed Pens, book and other DVD's on Amazon, too!« less