Working with brush, ink, and paper, students will learn how a painted image can emerge through attention, repetition, and the discipline of brushwork. The course is taught by artist Ayan Rivera, whose work bridges classical sumi-e brush practice and contemporary abstraction.

The course is built around the classical brush subjects known as the “Four Gentlemen”: bamboo, orchid, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom. Each one trains a different aspect of brush control — from line and pressure to structure, movement, and composition. Pine and other natural forms may also be introduced during the course.

Students will begin by working on practice paper and will gradually develop sensitivity to the way ink responds to the surface.

Each meeting includes ink preparation, demonstration, guided practice, and individual feedback. The final part of each meeting is dedicated to freer painting, where students can release the exercise and allow the brush to move with less self-consciousness.

No previous experience is required. The course is open to beginners and artists from other disciplines.

By the end of the course, students will leave with basic control of brush and ink, familiarity with classical subjects, and an introduction to sumi-e as an ongoing practice of attention, repetition, and form.

Students who complete the course may continue into the next cycle, where new and returning students work side by side. Beginners will continue building the foundations, while returning students may deepen their practice or begin developing more personal work under Ayan’s guidance.

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Language of instruction: English.

Course fee: 1,100 NIS, including materials.

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To view Ayan Rivera’s work: www.ayanrivera.com