Artist Chinese Letter Painter

To become an artist of Chinese letter painting, you must understand the craft and the culture that goes behind such a craft. A person that undertakes such a job will need to have characteristics about themselves in order to translate it into their artwork.

The Four Treasures of a Chinese Letter Painter

The Four Treasures are Sumi, Suzuri, Fude and Kami. In English, this is Ink, Stone (used for grinding), Brush and Paper.

From learning to paint letters, or characters, a person can create pictures, or Hua. Becoming a Chinese letter painter is part of the Chinese literati. This is based off the four disciplines of Shufa, Hua, Qin and Qi. This translates to calligraphy, painting, musical instrument (stringed) and a strategic element such as chess.

Education for a Chinese Letter Painter

There are a few options available when it comes to being a Chinese letter painter for a career. Although many people choose to learn it on their own, they never intend on making a living through the craft. In order to be successful, a person needs to learn not just the brush strokes but the meaning as well.

Choosing which education route depends on the person. Some people will choose an online school that teaches the principles, technique and meaning while others might go to a traditional four year college and complete a degree that incorporates Chinese letter painting.

Another approach to learning is actually visiting China and learning through their schooling system. This is the most time consuming and expensive.

Becoming a Chinese letter painter upholds the Chinese traditions, art and folklore and is a very respected career choice.