Sounds of Sumi

Curated by Alexander Fan and held at Blank Gallery between May 11 to May 29, 2023.

This group exhibiton was the inaugural group exhibition for Blank Gallery, being the first of many.

‘Sounds of Sumi’ was a group exhibition that sought to showcase the beauty and versatility of the traditional art form of Sumi-e painting. Sumi-e, or ink painting, has a long and rich history in East Asia, and has been practiced for over a thousand years. "Sounds of Sumi", showcases artists that explore new approaches and techniques, pushing the boundaries of this traditional art form. This exhibition will bring together a selection of traditional and contemporary works by Sumi-e artists, highlighting the unique styles and perspectives that they bring to this art form.

Sumi-e originated in China around 300 A.D. and was introduced to Japan in the 14th century. becoming popular among Zen Buddhist monks. It evolved from the Chinese practice, simplifying brushstrokes and often incorporating poetry to create a unique Japanese style. Sumi-e is known for its monochromatic black ink on white or off-white paper, emphasizing simplicity and minimalism.

Exhibiting Artists: