Course Introduction
Freehand ink painting (Xieyi) is one of the most important expressive forms in traditional Chinese painting.
Through concise brushwork and ink, it conveys both the spirit of the subject and the emotions of the artist.
Emphasizing “painting the mind through intention” and “capturing spirit through form,”
this art form reveals the vitality and poetic beauty of Eastern aesthetics through variations of ink density, moisture, and the use of negative space.
Course Objectives
Master fundamental brush techniques in freehand ink painting, including center-tip, side-tip, texture strokes (cun), and dotting
Study and copy classical subjects from The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting to build a solid foundation
Understand the artistic philosophy and traditional aesthetic values of freehand ink painting
Create personalized artworks based on the themes of Plum, Orchid, Chrysanthemum, and Bamboo
Course Outline
Classes 1–5｜The Four Gentlemen · Fragrance Through the Brush
Copying classical subjects from The Mustard Seed Garden Manual of Painting
Expressing the character of:
Orchid — elegance and refinement
Bamboo — integrity and resilience
Chrysanthemum — simplicity and grace
Plum Blossom — perseverance in adversity
Learning variations in linework, structure, and ink tones
Training in center-tip, side-tip, texture strokes, and dotting techniques
Guided completion of one “Four Gentlemen” themed artwork
Classes 6–12｜Expressive Landscape Painting · Scenes Within Ink
Training in mountain and rock structures and texture strokes (hemp-fiber, axe-cut, folded-belt, etc.)
Techniques for depicting trees, clouds, mist, and flowing water
Landscape composition and the balance of solid and void
Transitioning from copying to independent composition, cultivating a personal visual language
Creating thematic works integrating Four Gentlemen elements (e.g., “Bamboo Shadows in a Mountain Dwelling,” “Stream Sounds Beneath Plum Blossoms”)
Instruction in inscriptions, seal placement, and individual guidance
Completion of one expressive landscape artwork in a personal style
Instructor: 郑又硕 Jordant Chang
Course Duration
12 classes | Total 30 hours
Class Schedule
Monday Class: 5 January – 30 March 2026（16 Feb CNY offday)
Friday Class: 2 January – 27 March 2026（20 Feb CNY offday)
Class Size
Small-group instruction, maximum 6 students
Course Fee
RM1,700 (24 credits + 1 bonus credit)
* Each participant will receive 2 additional complimentary classes (5 hours) for post-class artwork critique,
as well as a 90-minute personalized seal carving session to create their own custom seal.
