Paint a one-of-a-kind Chinese ink ingot together with the craftsman.
Description
The Ink and Brush Workshop is composed of two national-level intangible cultural heritage projects: the Cao Sucheng inkstick making technique and the Zhou Huchen brush making technique. Both were established during the Kangxi era of the Qing Dynasty (in 1667 and 1694, respectively), with a history spanning over 350 years.
Chinese inksticks differ significantly from Western inks in their fundamental nature—while Chinese inksticks are "solid traditional crafts" that carry Eastern culture, Western inks are primarily "liquid industrial products" designed for practical writing. Chinese inksticks are made primarily from soot (pine soot or tung oil soot) and bound with natural animal glue. Some high-end inksticks also incorporate traditional Chinese medicines like musk, pearl, or pseudoginseng (to enhance stability and fragrance), containing no chemical additives.
Exploring the Hidden Art of Chinese Inksticks.You will first learn how a raw ink blank is transformed through numerous traditional processes. Then, you will focus on the "dotting the dragon's eyes" step—the gilding process. Using a fine wolf-hair brush, you will trace patterns inspired by Chinese landscapes or calligraphy, turning an ordinary inkstick into a work of art. This is a 2-hour journey blending history, craftsmanship, and creativity—perfect for anyone who wants to "touch" rather than just "see" Chinese culture.
- Welcome Ceremony & Inkstick Making Process
Learn about the inkstick production process and observe artisans crafting and sun-drying the inksticks.
- Introduction to Gilding Tools & Materials
Select gilding tools and understand the ingredients of gold-pigmented paints.
- Design Your Own Artwork
Create a design inspired by Chinese landscapes, calligraphy, or auspicious patterns.
- Gilding with Traditional Chinese Techniques
Use a fine Chinese wolf-hair brush to meticulously outline your design with gold powder.
- Wax Sealing & Artisan Inspection
Seal the inkstick with natural beeswax for protection. After passing the artisan’s inspection (visual, olfactory, and auditory checks), you can take home your unique Chinese inkstick.
This experience is available in English and Chinese.
You’ll begin by discovering how a raw ink cake is transformed through traditional craftsmanship, then focus on the "finishing touch" of gold detailing. With a delicate wolf-hair brush, you’ll trace patterns inspired by Chinese landscapes or calligraphy, turning an ordinary ink cake into a work of art. This 2-hour journey blends history, craftsmanship, and creativity—perfect for anyone who wants to "touch" rather than just "see" Chinese culture.
