Private Art Parties

The idea to bring this process to people's homes came from the elementary teachers who attended my Suminagashi program at Boston Children's Museum 20 years ago. They were in awe at the silent focus their students had with bamboo brushes in hand, others sitting with eyes closed, focused on their breathing. Zen achieved. Chaperones said things like "I need this!" and "can we stay here all day?" 

 

The traditions and lore of this ancient artform were passed on to me at a dining room table with a bottle of wine opened, and I think that's a mighty fine tradition to continue. 

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You entertain while I set up a few trays of water, ceramic lotus bowls of ink, and bamboo brushes. A hush falls over the room when the soundtrack kicks in - Shakuhachi flute brings the spa vibes. We'll start with a little story-telling - how this practice originated and how its secrets were kept for generations. Then I'll show how to work with the elements of nature as our co-creators of one-of-a-kind marbled papers. The process is meditative, exploratory, and absolutely fool-proof. There is simply nothing else like it.

I'll bring some samples of how to put these gorgeous papers to use once they're dry.

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 "I had no idea what Suminagashi was, but an art party with friends sounded like a lot of fun! It was honestly the closest thing to magic that I have ever done. So simple, mysterious and wondrous."  - L. Cohn

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A 2 hour house visit includes set up, clean up, and all materials needed for up to eight guests. 

$300  

Host provides libations and access to a sink.