The drawing of each of these plants is associated with a meditative technique because of the repetition it takes to attain this skill level. You also draw them as you observe them in nature but in a much more simplified manner. This is derived from the Confucius belief “Gunja”, meaning a man with virtue.

The painting technique is very specific and requires a lot of practice to even hold the brush correctly. The way of holding the brush is atypical from the way we have been used to holding it during art class, as well as the positioning of the elbow that is meant to be kept elevated at 90 degrees. It is quite hard to master the ink to water ratio for the brush, in order to obtain the type of strokes required for each of these drawings. I can understand why this is a meditative technique as it does require repetitive action over a long period of time. The type of ink used, the paper and the brush are very specific and can only be found in Asian art stores or brought directly from Korea.

Throughout this class I have developed a newfound respect for the elders and the incredible art pieces created hundreds of years ago.

Here are my own attempts at learning the process versus our teacher’s drawings.