Step into the serene world of traditional Chinese painting and discover the refined art of Gongbi 工笔. Known for its meticulous brushwork, delicate layering and precise detailing, Gongbi is a classical Chinese painting tradition that places emphasis on precision, elegance and close observation of nature.
With roots in the highly developed painting traditions of the Song Dynasty, Gongbi is characterised by fine linework, controlled brushwork and the gradual layering of ink and colour. In this focused 2.5-hour workshop, participants will explore these traditional principles through a study of the lotus 荷花.
Under the guidance of the instructor, participants will work with traditional Chinese painting materials, including Gongbi brushes, ink, pigments and silk, learning how to control the brush, construct form through fine lines and develop depth through successive layers of colour.
The lotus provides a focused study in observation, proportion, line, colour and negative space. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants will discover how seemingly delicate brushwork can create structure, dimension and visual harmony.
The workshop offers more than an introduction to a traditional medium. It is an opportunity to experience the patience, precision and sensitivity at the heart of classical Chinese painting, while developing an appreciation for the enduring visual language of Gongbi.
Yes. This workshop is suitable for absolute beginners and art enthusiasts interested in traditional Chinese painting, as well as learners who wish to experience the techniques and aesthetics of Song Dynasty Gongbi flower painting.
No prior experience in Gongbi or Chinese painting is required.
Participants will complete a Gongbi lotus painting created by their own hand, while gaining a foundational understanding of traditional Chinese brushwork, materials and colour application.
Vivian is a prolific artist and educator with over 25 years of professional experience in arts creation and education. A creative visionary, Vivian has cultivated a deep mastery of traditional and contemporary techniques, combining technical precision with vibrant, and expressive compositions.
Vivian had served as Senior Lecturer at Jilin University School of Art & Design for over a decade. During this tenure, she designed and delivered extensive curricula in fine art, illustration, structural design, and visual merchandising, mentoring students and guiding them through real-world projects that earned national recognition.
As a practicing artist, Vivian has participated in numerous exhibitions and residencies across China and Singapore, including Song of Songs at Zhuoer Art Museum, Faith. Hope. Love at the Community Art Center in Shanghai, and residencies at The Rose Studio Arts Center. Recent awards include the Art Pioneering Innovation Award and Award for Artistic Creativity in Shanghai (2023).
In her studio practice, Vivian combines mastery of traditional Chinese techniques such as Tiexian (铁线描) and Fenran (分染) with contemporary approaches in Chinese ink, watercolor, acrylic, and mixed media. A dedicated educator, she continues to teach, mentor, and create, producing works celebrated for their vibrancy, technical excellence, and expressive depth.
Who can join?
This class is suitable for beginners or those with little or no experience.
How to book?
Leave a note with your preferred date and time upon checkout. The start date will be finalised with you through email or private message.
Step into the serene world of traditional Chinese painting and discover the refined art of Gongbi 工笔. Known for its meticulous brushwork, delicate layering and precise detailing, Gongbi is a classical Chinese painting tradition that places emphasis on precision, elegance and close observation of nature.
With roots in the highly developed painting traditions of the Song Dynasty, Gongbi is characterised by fine linework, controlled brushwork and the gradual layering of ink and colour. In this focused 2.5-hour workshop, participants will explore these traditional principles through a study of the lotus 荷花.
Under the guidance of the instructor, participants will work with traditional Chinese painting materials, including Gongbi brushes, ink, pigments and silk, learning how to control the brush, construct form through fine lines and develop depth through successive layers of colour.
The lotus provides a focused study in observation, proportion, line, colour and negative space. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants will discover how seemingly delicate brushwork can create structure, dimension and visual harmony.
The workshop offers more than an introduction to a traditional medium. It is an opportunity to experience the patience, precision and sensitivity at the heart of classical Chinese painting, while developing an appreciation for the enduring visual language of Gongbi.
Yes. This workshop is suitable for absolute beginners and art enthusiasts interested in traditional Chinese painting, as well as learners who wish to experience the techniques and aesthetics of Song Dynasty Gongbi flower painting.
No prior experience in Gongbi or Chinese painting is required.
Participants will complete a Gongbi lotus painting created by their own hand, while gaining a foundational understanding of traditional Chinese brushwork, materials and colour application.
Vivian is a prolific artist and educator with over 25 years of professional experience in arts creation and education. A creative visionary, Vivian has cultivated a deep mastery of traditional and contemporary techniques, combining technical precision with vibrant, and expressive compositions.
Vivian had served as Senior Lecturer at Jilin University School of Art & Design for over a decade. During this tenure, she designed and delivered extensive curricula in fine art, illustration, structural design, and visual merchandising, mentoring students and guiding them through real-world projects that earned national recognition.
As a practicing artist, Vivian has participated in numerous exhibitions and residencies across China and Singapore, including Song of Songs at Zhuoer Art Museum, Faith. Hope. Love at the Community Art Center in Shanghai, and residencies at The Rose Studio Arts Center. Recent awards include the Art Pioneering Innovation Award and Award for Artistic Creativity in Shanghai (2023).
In her studio practice, Vivian combines mastery of traditional Chinese techniques such as Tiexian (铁线描) and Fenran (分染) with contemporary approaches in Chinese ink, watercolor, acrylic, and mixed media. A dedicated educator, she continues to teach, mentor, and create, producing works celebrated for their vibrancy, technical excellence, and expressive depth.
Who can join?
This class is suitable for beginners or those with little or no experience.
How to book?
Leave a note with your preferred date and time upon checkout. The start date will be finalised with you through email or private message.
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