Contemplative Mind, Spontaneous Brush: Ink, Colour and Japanese Washi Papers

Relax body, breath and mind with short guided meditations and simple perceptual exercises. Follow brushwork demonstrations using Japanese sumi ink, watercolour and acrylic on various Japanese washi papers (provided). Inspired by the natural beauty of Cortes Island, we will explore mixed media approaches of layering, tearing and collaging. Deep intuitive and directed studies lead to personal and unique expressions in abstract or naturalistic imagery creating an abundance of patterned washis for use in this workshop. Along with other coloured washis we will integrate these, and allow new forms of expression to emerge.

Participants will be spending time outdoors walking, sometimes over rugged terrain. Please pack mindfully and consider bringing supportive footwear. Please email [email protected] for more information or for any accessibility related questions.

Note: It is appreciated by Heather that participants be present for the duration of the entire workshop

What You’ll Gain

• An understanding of how tonality and the value in ink studies can be used to create harmonious compositions.
• A better understanding of how to create depth and volume.
• Experience working with various Japanese washi papers.
• Develop techniques to create transparency, colour saturation, and develop better brush handling.
• The experimental joy of playing with Japanese washis in completed works and spark creativity for future projects.

Who This Program is For

• Those who want to learn how silent meditation and reflection precedes active involvement and spontaneity of brush-line-painting.
• Those who are interested in learning and discovering personal mark making through repeated gestural studies.
• Those interested in learning to use self-made and unusual implements and brushes.

Material Fee

Additional supply costs ($140 CAD) for this program are included in the package pricing. 

Art Supplies

All participants will receive a detailed supply list upon registration. Some brushes will be for sale if you would like to purchase brushes please contact Heather in advance [email protected]

Testimonials

Heather’s combination of meditation in the garden & spontaneous brushwork on Japanese Washi paper was revelatory, powerful & a lot of fun. -Jane (2025 participant)

This program thoroughly lived up to the course description – we were encouraged and supported to discover spontaneity rooted in contemplation. What a gift! -Susan (2025 participant)

Je suis une étudiante de Heather depuis 20 ans. J’ai débuté en 2000 au Musée de Beaux Arts de Montréal. J’aime surtout comment on débute nos cours avec un moment de recueillement et on débute en observant Heather comment elle prépare sa création et nous enseigne ses techniques. Ensuite on est libre de profiter de l’inspiration de Heather avec nos idées et créativité. Et c’est toujours un succès et très inspirant quand on travaille en groupe. Et chaque atelier est différent et ainsi chacun enrichit ses connaissances en peintures très variées. – Theresia, Past participant

Translated from French by Jolaine Boucher: I have been a student of Heather’s for over 20 years. I started at the Fine Arts museum in Montreal, in 2000. I particularly enjoy that we start our classes with a moment of reflection/meditation* and we start with observing how Heather prepares her creations and teaches her techniques. And so, we are free to profit [gain] from Heather’s  inspirations with our ideas and creativity. It’s always a success and truly inspiring to work in groups. Every session is different and so each is enriching of her knowledge and varied paintings.

Daily Schedule

A detailed schedule will be emailed to you about 30 days prior to your program. Click here to view a sample program schedule.