Qatari and Japanese students recently learned the traditional Japanese art of ‘Sumi-e’ (black and white painting) at the Japan School of Doha (JSD). Visiting Japanese ‘Sumi-e’ expert Takako Kanazawa conducted the workshop which was co-hosted by JSD, Japanese Embassy and Al Yarmouk Independent Preparatory School for Boys. Seven Qatari students and 15 Japanese students experienced painting various figures with brush and only black ink. “Sumi-e” is black and white abstract and figurative painting used with East Asian calligraphy black ink and brushes. “Sumi-e” was introduced from China to Japan in the mid-14 century and has been developed as a part of the unique Japanese traditional art and culture. In the philosophy of ‘Sumi-e’, the goal is not to reproduce the appearance of the subject, but to capture its soul. With the skill of varying density of ink, a number of beautiful works have been created such as paintings of humans, animals and nature. “Unlike other methods of paintings, ‘Sumi-e’ can express what you see on a canvas, only with the density of black ink and the speed of sweeping the brush,” said Kanazawa. The workshop was organised to provide Qatari students opportunity to deepen their understanding about Japanese culture and tradition. Apart from promoting art appreciation among the students, the workshop also enhanced mutual understanding and friendship between Qatari and Japanese peoples in new generation. It was amazing to see the Qatari students saying “Sayonara” and the Japanese students reciprocating by saying Ma’ Salama”, while leaving the School. Japanese Ambassador Yukio Kitazume and Hiroko Kitazume graced the event with their presence. Renowned Qatari artist Yousef Ahmed also attended the workshop and gave a brief introduction of Qatari and Japanese ways of traditional painting. http://thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=Local_News&subsection=Qatar+News&month=October2009&file=Local_News2009101305834.xml

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