Adventures in Brush Painting

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It's been a week of bird practice for me. As with most subjects I paint, I don't plan my birds out. That doesn't mean I don't practice. Improvisers of all kinds (dancers, musicians, artists, actors) still need to keep the wheels greased so that technique doesn't get in the way of the performance. Sumi-e birds are all about capturing the essence of 'birdie-ness'. Here are my practice sheets: some of the birds are good, some are so-so, and some are a bit of a train wreck! But that's the beauty of practicing. I hope you enjoy them and feel inspired to try your own.
Chinese brush painting of birds including a pigeon, a phoebe and Virginia birds

Bird Practice Painting #1

Chinese brush painting of birds including a chick, a flying bird and two birds on a branch

Bird Practice Painting #2

Chinese brush painting of birds in different poses

Bird Practice Painting #3

Chinese brush painting of black birds in different poses

Bird Practice Painting #4

Let me know if you have questions!
11 Comments
Eddy Balaam. - 2 weeks ago
Dear Virginia, I would like to say THANKYOU for this web site. When I was 16 I used to paint landscapes in Chinese brush. Then when I met my wife, my painting stopped, I had three wonderful children. Now at 79 I have alzhimers. And I have been advised to restart painting again. The reason for this communication is to let you know that despite the large pile of ‘Chinese brush’ books I now own, your videos actually explain in detail how to paint in the style I desired 60+ years ago. THANKYOU Virginia for the work you do and being the artist you are.
Virginia Lloyd-Davies - 2 weeks ago
Dear Eddy, I am delighted to read that you find my videos helpful. I have many on my YouTube site (www.youtube.com/virginiald) in addition to my blog posts. You and I are the same age and I find painting helps me to stay centered. Chinese brush painting is particularly good at permitting our unique ch'i energy to blossom, regardless of our minds. Wishing you well!
Eileen Connor - 10 years ago
These are wonderful, Virginia! I don't really see any train wrecks, but I know a few things must bother you...however as you say-that is practice...and we must do it! Thanks for the inspiration and the models. Now to the painting board for me!
Virginia Lloyd-Davies - 10 years ago
The big problem about improving is that we immediately set our sights higher! But as you say, practice we must! Good luck at the painting board!
Luis Ortiz - 10 years ago
Hello, Virginia.
Great work, and nice website.
I'd like to understand the signatures in your paintings. I see there's a couple of kanji characters, and a couple of stamps, and besides that you still sign your name in romaji.
What is the "protocol" to sign chinese or japanse sumi-ê or shodo work?
Thanks, and best regards.
Luis.
Virginia Lloyd-Davies - 10 years ago
Hello Luis, thanks for checking out my website. The Chinese characters are my artist's name, which my teacher gave me, following the Chinese tradition of the master giving the student a painting name. It is pronounced "Wei Jen" (the closest in sound to "Virginia") and translates as "Nothing But Love". Below that, in red, I usually put two chops: one is Wei Jen, the other is VLD, my Western initials. Sometimes I also include a mood seal. I also sign "Virginia" because I am indeed a Westerner. As far as protocol: artists are constantly changing their names. I identify with both Wei Jen and Virginia, so I include both. I'm not much into protocol or rules. I am sure there are plenty of rules.There usually are! One of the great things about being an artist is that you can make up your own! Good luck and happy painting!
Jim McCaffrey - 9 years ago
Hi Virginia, l have a few questions, but I wish to know how you are keeping-- please let me know. Really love your artwork. I hope your treatment has worked. Warm regards , Jim N - Ireland
Virginia Lloyd-Davies - 8 years ago
Hi again, Jim! Wanted you to know that I am now doing much better (can actually find the right keys on the laptop!) and am painting, singing, dancing and carrying on, if not quite like before, at least cheerfully! Thanks for staying in touch! - Virginia
Virginia - 9 years ago
I'm getting better each day, but slowly. I ma having trouble typing so save those questions!
everythingbegins - 8 years ago
Wow wonderful art work. This is perfect for my bedroom wall. Thanks! Keep sharing!!
Virginia Lloyd-Davies - 8 years ago
Glad you like it! Thanks for commenting!

Virginia
Lloyd-Davies

Painting in sumi-e and Chinese brush technique since 1976 in 'splashing ink' style has taught me to appreciate the delights of spontaneity. Just as in life, there is no 'perfection' in painting, but there is much joy. Come join me in this adventure!