The Sumi-E Dream Book: An Impressionist Approach to the Art of Japanese Brush Painting Paperback – January 1, 2003

I bought this book for the dream concept of Asian Art. After studying Asian Ink Painting for 4 plus years, I wanted to see an artist put the different primaries, such as the Four Gentlemen, together in a fluid creative way. This book is done beautifly. I loved her treatment of bird painting and placement.I would certainly recommend this to any artist interested in expanding their Sumi-e experience. It's a great addition to an artists library.

After recieving this book and went through it I am so glad I bought it. I love Sum.-E paintings and am interested in learning how to do it. This book will be perfect for my learning. The pictures in this book are awesome. The instructions are clear. With practice I expect to do well.The seller didn't over packaged and they got it here early. Thanks

Being an afficionado of Chinese Brush painting, I was intrigued when I first saw this book. I'm not easily impressed by art books, and I've reviewed hundreds over the years, but this is one of those books that actually surprised me. It really is a dream for artists intersted in the brush painting of China and Japan. Here's why...Mayhall's style is both beautiful and spontaneous, and the imagery in this book is breathtaking. What is really refreshing about this book, however, is that it isn't just another *how to* brush technique book. While she does go into great detail on history, materials, technique, and subject matter, the artist puts you into the mindset of a Sumi-e artist. Rather than simply show her readers "how" to paint, Mayhall encourages them to begin their own journey into Sumi-e "dream" painting, and equips them with the knowledge necessary to find their own artistic voice. She states, "it is not only the subject that gives life to art, it is the spirit that is within the artist's genius." Well said!Material covered in this text includes:* Chapter 1 - A Brief History of Sumi-e* Chapter 2 - Studying the Dream Journey Painters of China and Japan* Chapter 3 - Starting on Your Own Dream Journey (tools, brush strokes)* Chapter 4 - Practicing the Four Gentlemen (bamboo, wild orchid, chrysanthemum, plum branch)* Chapter 5 - Beginning the Creative Process (incorporating the four gentlemen)* Chapter 6 - Learning Advanced Brush Strokes for Birds & Flowers (Yo birds, iris, hummingbirds & its flowers)* Chapter 7 - Internalizing the Three Essential Elements of Sumi-e (creativity, composition, color)* Chapter 8 - Planning the Journey (sketching, structure, Exploring new techniques, beginning your dream journey)* Chapter 9 - Dreaming (more ideas & demonstrations)* Chapter 10 - Enhancing Your Dream Paintings (calligraphy)If you're interested in the brush painting style of China and Japan, or would like to incorporate these techniques into your watercolor and/or ink painting, I recommend this book along with "Chinese Painting Techniques for Exquisite Watercolors" by Lian Quan Zhen... two excellent books to inspire you and bring your own artistic dreams to life.

THIS has good to be one of the very best books I have ever bought. It just ties together my entire life AND my artistic expression.Not only well written (and gorgeously illustrated) but INSPIRATIONAL.The world should be full of books this good -- and I know books, I used to be bookseller.Yes. I LOVE this book ...

A gorgeous book! I am learning sumi-e from the author's first book ... haven't ventured into the color area yet. But I am certainly going to! The prospect is exciting.Also, I showed this book to a Japanese neighbor who loves to paint and she was entranced with it. I consider that a true endorsement.

I love Yolanda's style of sumi-e. She also really expands on her first book by showing the more advanced methods of Sumi e painting. It opens your thoughts to other images in your environment.

A friend of mine in my Sumi-e class allowed me to borrow what is clearly one of his treasured books. I found Ms. Mayhall's technique to be warm and, therefore, I purchased another of her books, The Sumi-e Book.

Its ok but I thought it was going to be more step by step and its not. Good book thow.