Original Sumi

The primary object of sumi-e (pronounced: sue me a) is to represent the subject with very few brush strokes. This economy of style has often led to sumi-e being referred to as the haiku of painting, as its abbreviated form parallels that of the brief poem.

The foundation of all my paintings is my finely crafted hand pulled paper. That is a large part of what makes my work so distinctive. I am a state juried member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen for my hand crafted paper.

Curled Cat

Shown left is a painting done on my hand made paper with knotweed and other inclusions and imbedded reed segments. It is shown against a contrasting background to show off the paper's natural deckled edges. Any painting you receive incorporating embedded reed segments will be framed similarly to show off the paper's natural deckled edges while complimenting a wood frame.

Cat & Beetle

Shown left is a painting of a cat studying a beetle, done on my manila hemp paper with knotweed and other inclusions and an imbedded reed segment. It is shown against a contrasting background to show off the paper's natural deckled edges.

Clover

Shown left is a painting of red clover; done on my manila hemp paper with knotweed and other inclusions.

Pom

Shown left is a floral painting; done on my manila hemp paper with knotweed and other inclusions.

Auspicious Circle Paintings

Shown left is a combination sumi-e and nature print, on a circular sheet of my hand made manila hemp paper, showing the natural deckled edges. The circle is an auspicious shape in feng shui and is highly recommended to stimulate positive chi.

matted in a 16" x 16" wood frame

Remember that the sumi-e style is brief, suggestive, just enough to represent the subject, and maybe a bit more to suggest the mood of the subject. So, while each flower should be recognizable, they will not be highly realistic. Simple single sheet paintings can be matted with the deckled edges showing or not depending on one's preference. I suggest you visit my collaged artworks page to see examples of my brushwork combined with my collaged papers. Note that not all collaged pieces contain brushwork.

For information on symbolism in my artworks, to help you select a perfect painting to hang
in your home or office or to give as a gift, go to my page on the meanings of images in my art.

Please note that there may be color distortions in these thumbnail images depending on your browser and monitor settings.

Feel free to e-mail with any questions concerning papers available, paper collage combinations,
nature printed elements available, matting and framing options, etc.

I am always happy to discuss your interests, and provide a quote, with no obligation to purchase.