Casey Shannon Studio Sumi-e Art
Ranked #2,538 in Arts & Design, #33,321 overall
Elegant Brush Paintings: The Sound of One Hand
My main goal and purpose for designing this lens, is to share with you contemporary Sumi-e art and my story, share Sumi-e techniques and resources, and hopefully offer up some 'food for thought' and inspiration. I am a contemporary Sumi-e painter reaching beyond the limits of traditional ink painting. Painting is one of my passions. Please read my Bio and learn more about me and my life path as an artist and as a woman. Enjoy and Thank you! To view my original paintings, my stroke recovery art, and discover other delightful gems, please visit Casey Shannon Studio. Visit my Blog and Sign Up for my Art Newsletter.
Discover 'The Sound of One Hand' and you will be glad you took the time..
Tweet with Me!
Copyright © 2009 - 2012
Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved.
The Art of Sumi-e

Japanese Ink Painting
The Art of Sumi-e
My thoughts and personal approach to ink painting called Sumi-e:I am a contemporary sumi-e painter reaching beyond the limits of traditional ink painting. My paintings one would not generally call traditional sumi-e. However, I adhere to the traditional sumi-e principles and philosophies, as well as, the traditional preparation before beginning a sumi-e painting.
Sumi-e expresses the character and soul of the artist. It is a meditative process and spiritually personal. Understanding this concept has been at the center of my art. I have been a student of Western painting and of ink painting. Ink painting called Sumi-e has captivated my spirit and soul. I am continually trying to increase my understanding of the secret of beauty and grace and elegance. The example of an ink painting that I have created and included above is called Branch of Persimmon. Expressed in words by my Haiku:
" juicy ripe, branch of persimmon, gently live."
- Casey
As an artist, for me, ink painting is a meditation and a creative process. I concentrate on trying to capture spirit as the ink is transferred to the paper with the stroke of the brush. The brush is pushed across the surface of the paper quickly. If your intention is correct, the object in the picture seems to 'breathe and take on life'. This unseen yet felt breath begins to fill the page with spirit just as it does in all of nature which surrounds us. The special power of the painted form shines and immerges through the ink and the white page. The white space surrounding the painted form becomes as important as the object itself. The ink painting represents soul, spirit, elegance, and beauty all at the same time and in concert. As I mentioned in my artist bio, meditating combined with the creative process literally saved my life. To learn more about recovery art, please visit Healing with Art at caseyshannon.com
The Sumi-e art form is steeped in Zen Buddhism. In Sumi-e or ink painting, you have to 'become one' with the object in the painting. When you understand and/or experience how the simple and bold lines of the brush strokes and various shades of the ink are transformed to create a powerful spirit and energy, then you will have a sense of what these philosophies and paintings are all about.
Brush painting or ink painting called Sumi-e in Japan is done quickly without over thinking your subject matter. Once the brush is laid to the white paper and you have a mark, that's it. There is no erasing, doing over, or changing. The painting 'just exists'. This is why one who creates Sumi-e paints from a quiet centered place and has the intention of capturing the object's spirit and essence with just a few simple and graceful brush strokes.Sumi-e exemplifies the concept of 'Less is More.'
'Kokoro tadashikereba sunawachi fude tadashi'.
If your mind is correct, the brush will be correct.
Contemporary Sumi-e Flowers
by Casey Shannon Studio
Casey Shannon Studio Sumi-e
Rain Bamboo
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
Rain Bamboo
Image 9 x 12
" A lightening flash--
the sound of water drops
falling through bamboo."
- Buson
From the Artist:
Bamboo signifies Strength and the Ability to Bend.
These original brush paintings are created with traditional Sumi-e Ink and Japanese Watercolor and painted on Italia Acquerello. Click on the images for cards, posters, art prints, and Fine Art Reproductions. To purchase original paintings please visit caseyshannon.com
Yellow Blossoms
Spirit Standing
Moon Forest
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
Moon Forest
Image 8 x 8
"Such a moon--
even the thief
pauses to sing."
- Buson
To purchase or view original art from Casey Shannon please visit caseyshannon.com
Visit my Blog at: Casey Shannon Studio Art Blog
Hakuin
The Sound of One Hand
What is the sound of one hand clapping?So asked Hakuin, the author of this well known Zen koan. Hakuin was one of the most important Japanese Zen masters of the Rinzai school. Hakuin often asked his students to contemplate and meditate on this koan. Hakuin Ekaku (1686-1769 or 1685-1768) was one of the most influential figures in Japanese Zen Buddhism.
Much of Hakuin's practice focused, as his teachings did, on zazen and koan practice. His motto was "meditation in the midst of activity is a thousand times superior to meditation in stillness". Hakuin's experiences of enlightenment seemed to come at unexpected moments, often when he was just walking or reading. One experience that he wrote about took place while he was walking through a torrential rain. As the water reached his knees, he suddenly realized the meaning of a particular verse that he had read earlier, and was seized by enlightenment. He had many such experiences, both large and small. Laughter was a large part of Hakuin's reaction to his enlightenments, and he was known to burst into spontaneous laughter upon realizing the essence of a particular koan, causing those around him to believe him to be a madman.
My heartfelt mission is to tell everyone on the planet that there is hope and life after stroke or any traumatic life-altering experience. I want to inspire others not only with my words but also with my art. Hakuin asked this question: 'What is the sound of one hand clapping?'. Could it be painting in wild abandon with your non-dominate hand? Creating 'The Sound of One Hand'?
Click Here to read my story and view 'The Sound of One Hand'.
Hakuin: The Sound of One Hand
Ink Paintings and Calligraphy
Contemporary Sumi-e
by Casey Shannon Studio
Enso One - Winner!
Winner of the Parents Day competition on ImageKind!
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
The enso is an expression of the mind of the artist who brushes it. As a symbol, the circle expresses the totality of our being. The circle points to the most vital aspect of our essence -- it's ultimate wholeness. The enso symbolizes enlightenment, power, and the universe itself. It is a direct expression of thusness or this-moment-as-it-is. Enso is considered to be one of the most profound subjects in zenga (Zen inspired painting).
Inside this image of Enso One, is painted a mother bird watching over her nest of babies and eggs. And, protecting it as a pleased and proud parent. As does the Enso, 'parents symbolize 'enlightenment and a circle of protection'.
This award winning image may be purchased as a Fine Art Print at Casey Shannon Studio Sumi Gallery at ImageKind. The original sumi-e is SOLD!
Enso Aven
Copyright © 2009 - 2012 Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved.
This image was inspired by my new granddaughter. Her name is Aven. Aven is a 15th century Celtic name meaning 'pure radiance'. Aven is also a flower. Mountain Aven's are delicate yet strong study little flowers that grow in very high altitudes. These little beauties are related to the rose. Puts a different meaning to the phrase 'my wild Irish rose!'The original Enso is not for sale.
Fine Art Reproductions may be purchased Here.
Beautiful Art Supplies!
These are some of the tools I use to paint my Sumi-e.
Creating Sumi-e is to be able to utilize beautiful tools. I use my personally carved artist seals or chops, red seal paste, beautifully decorated bamboo or porcelain brushes with many different hair-types, lovely Japanese watercolor cups, grinding stones in meaningful shapes, and ink sticks (black and color). For me, being able to use such gorgeous tools is part of the allure of painting Sumi-e. Casey Shannon Studio
Sumi-e Art Newsletter
Interested in receiving a Sumi-e Art Newsletter once a month? It includes information on philosophies, techniques, tools, resources, and history of ink painting. A new artist is spotlighted each month. In addition, news and events of the studio are highlighted and you will be able to read Gabe's Gossip.Sign Up for my Art Newsletter.
Archived Newsletters are available HERE
Contemporary Sumi-e Bamboo
by Casey Shannon Studio
Casey Shannon Fine Art
Fine Art Reproductions
Giclée (pronounced "zhee-clay" from French) is a process of making fine art prints from a digital source usung ink-jet printing. The name was originally applied to fine art prints created on Iris printers in a process invented in the early 1990s but has since come to mean any high quality ink-jet print and is often used in galleries and print shops to denote such prints. Beside its association with Iris prints, in the past few years, the word "giclée," as a fine art term, has come to be associated with prints using fade-resistant "archival" inks. I have 15 images to choose from in my Fine Art Gallery not found elsewhere. You can finish your piece and choose a mat and frame of your choice right on the website.
Please Visit: Casey Shannon Fine Art
International Sumi-e Society
Chinese Calligraphic Art and Ink Painting Artist Institute
I was honored to be asked and recorded (10-16-2010) as an Invited Artist and a Counselor in this International Society of Chinese Art and Ink Painting Institute, which is located in Tokyo Japan and headed by Master Sumi-e painter Ransui YakataClick Here for information about the institute. It is mostly written in Japanese but you'll get the idea!
Click Here for society information details on my website in English.
I am the Director of the North American branch of ICCPS. Do not hesitate to contact me!
Please visit ICCPS Squidoo Lens
Sumi Society
North American Branch
Tokyo Art Exhibition
International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society
Place: Tokyo, Shibuya, JAPAN Garallery Dou-gen ZAKA
Address:102 Purime-la Dougenzaka 15-3 Dougenzaka 1chome Shibuya-ku Tokyo
Dates: May 31 - June 5 - 2011
Time: 11:00am - 6:00 pm
Memorial Special Exhibition
Host: Rakuyou Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Institute - Ransui YAKATA
Presented by : International Chinese Calligraphy and Chinese Ink Painters Society
Branches: China ,North America, Netherlands/Belgium, France, Tokyo, and China Liao-ning province artist society
Participation from the heads of all of our branches.
I am honored to represent the North America Branch in this exhibit!
Tokyo Exhibition
My humble sumi-e contribution.
Sumi-e Exhibit in China
Museum of AnShan City, LiaoNing province.
This is one of my scrolls that was on display called 'Black Bird Grace'.
For more information about the society: Click Here
Current Members of ICCPS - 2012
North American Branch
2012 Sumi-e Calendar
by Casey Shannon Studio
Casey Shannon Studio Greeting Cards
Copyright © 2009 - 2012 Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved.
You can purchase just one card or several cards presented in a gift box.
More images available in my Zazzle Gallery.
Casey Shannon Sumi-e Art Prints
Copyright © 2009 - 2012 Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved.
Beautiful Ink Painting called Sumi-e by accomplished Carmel Artist Casey Shannon printed on high quality matte UV paper. Prints may be custom framed by you with no mat or a mat of your choice right on the site before purchase. Over 60 images available in my Zazzle Gallery. Enjoy!
Casey Shannon Studio Art Blog
News from the studio!
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byContemporary Sumi-e Birds and Fish
by Casey Shannon Studio
Just Published!
Great new Sumi-e resource
Learn the Art of Sumi-e
Sumi Kits
Getting started in Sumi-e
Music for Meditation Ink Painting
Art for Cancer Group
The Art for Cancer Group. We are a group of global artists who have united to help in the fight against cancer. We donate a portion of our art sales to various cancer charities. We are artists united in the cause to stamp out cancer! Our artwork is available as Fine Art Reproductions in the form of prints, canvas prints, framed prints and greeting cards at Art for Cancer Group at ImageKind.We have a new online presence. Our own website! Please visit! Art for Cancer Group
Midnight Playing Gold
Art for Cancer
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
This unique Sumi-e is called Midnight Playing Gold and created by accomplished Carmel artist Casey Shannon. This image is available as a Fine Art Reproduction at ImageKind. 50% of the proceeds from the sale of this work go to Cancer Research. Click Image.

Click Here to go to ImageKind
Snowy Mountain Retreat
Art for Cancer
Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
This dramatic sumi-e is called Snowy Mountain Retreat by accomplished Carmel artist Casey Shannon. 50% of the proceeds from the sale of this work will be donated to Cancer research. To purchase a Fine Art Reproduction of this work go to Sumi Gallery at ImageKind.
Ivy Rust
Art for Cancer
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
This delicate Sumi-e is called Ivy Rust by artist Casey Shannon. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this artwork will be donated to breast cancer research. To purchase this piece go to Sumi Gallery at Imagekind.
Movement
Art for Cancer
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
This playful abstract Sumi-e is called Movement by accomplished Carmel artist Casey Shannon. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this art will be donated to breast cancer research. You can purchase this piece at SumiSpirit Gallery at ImageKind.
Tulips Three
Art for Cancer
Copyright © 2009 - 2012Casey Shannon Studio Art.
All rights reserved.
This floral beauty is called Tulips Three by accomplished Carmel artist Casey Shannon. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this work will be donated to breast cancer research. You can purchase this piece by going to Sumi Gallery at ImageKind.
Casey Shannon Sumi-e Art Studio Gifts
Copyright © 2009 - 2012 Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved.
Orchid Yellow Greeting Cards (Pk of 10)
Greeting cards are for more than holidays; they are a great way to express yourself and to keep in touch with friends and family.
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting created in Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Spring Framed Tile
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting created in Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Bell Blue Light Keepsake Box
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting created in Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Rain Bamboo Mini Poster Print
11 x 17 Glossy Poster suitable for framing!
Image reproduced from original painting created in Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Gold of Color Ceramic Travel Mug
Travel with your hot drink in style!
Unique watercolor. Image reproduced from original painting created in Japanese inks and watercolors.
More Beautiful Gifts
Midnight Playing Gold Tile Coaster
Elegant Original Brush Painting. Image reproduced from painting of Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Little Bit Yellow Journal
Scribble important stuff - lyrics, recipes, addresses, and more.
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting created in Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Happy Little Swallow Small Framed Print
Prints are perfect for the home or office. All prints are custom manufactured using archival inks and acid-free paper. Framed prints are matted and framed in a stylish black frame with plexiglass cover. Frames include complete backing. Frame size: 19" x 11"
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting of Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Leaves of Life Framed Panel Print
Prints are perfect for the home or office. All prints are custom manufactured using archival inks and acid-free paper. Framed prints are matted and framed in a stylish black frame with plexiglass cover. Frames include complete backing. Frame size: 13" x 16"
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting of Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor. This image was inspired by the beauty and joy of life and how life enfolds us all in her experience
Rain Bamboo Tote Bag
Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting created in Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor.
Casey Shannon Studio Gifts
Casey Shannon Studio Logo Shirts
Copyright © 2009 - 2012 Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved.
Need a little inspiration?
Maybe you should wear a Casey Shannon Logo shirt, which displays the inspirational motto:
"Your Treasure House is in yourself, it contains all you need". Hui Hai 8th Century
From the Designer:
Casey Shannon Studio Logo Shirts! Available from CafePress only! Elegant Brush Painting. Image reproduced from original painting of Sumi Ink and Japanese watercolor. Some shirts display inspirational Hui Hai poem. More designs available! Visit CafePress to view more.
Penny for Your Thoughts: GuestBook
Guest Book
Comments, Suggestions, Praise?
-
Reply
-
scar4
Jan 19, 2011 @ 9:31 pm | delete
- I think Japanese painting arts have much in common with Chinese paintings. The art of Sumi-e is gorgeous, enjoy "The Sound of One Hand" piece a lot.
-
-
Reply
-
CaseyShannonStudio
Jan 19, 2011 @ 9:40 pm | delete
- Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. The piece of art you like is my logo called "Treasure House". :-)
-
-
Reply
-
Susanne_Iles
Jan 7, 2011 @ 7:07 am | delete
- I loved this lens and your art is absolutely breathtaking and inspiring. I am a professional artist as well but my work is done meticulously with tiny paintbrushes over hundreds of hours.
Your Sumi-e is like catching a poem in mid breath, or watching a butterfly's wings reflect a ray of sunlight. Your artwork has inspired me to learn more about Sumi-e. Thank you!
-
-
Reply
-
CaseyShannonStudio
Jan 7, 2011 @ 3:49 pm | delete
- Thank you so much for commenting on my lens. Your words are like art and music to my ears! What a lovely thing to say about my art. Deep gratitude and much appreciation.
-
-
Reply
-
RenaissanceWoman2010
Dec 31, 2010 @ 7:31 am | delete
- It was very inspirational reading about your journey and viewing your art. Like you, I find Sumi-e to be a deeply rewarding spiritual pathway. Wishing you continued growth and transformation through your art. Happy New Year!
-
-
Reply
-
CaseyShannonStudio
Jan 3, 2011 @ 10:21 pm | delete
- Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey and view my art.
-
-
Reply
-
khael
Dec 29, 2010 @ 3:50 pm | delete
- Your sumi-e work is amazing! I love Time Electric. It has the vibrancy of a modern work and retains the elegance of the traditional. It's great when an artist pulls off something like that so seamlessly.
-
-
Reply
-
CaseyShannonStudio
Dec 29, 2010 @ 3:59 pm | delete
- Thank you so much for you kind words and compliment! Much appreciated!
-
-
Reply
-
SmartChica
Dec 28, 2010 @ 5:00 pm | delete
- Hi - I just included a link to your "caseystudio" lens on http://www.squidoo.com/where-to-buy-art-on-squidoo
Happy art-making!
-
-
Reply
-
CaseyShannonStudio
Dec 28, 2010 @ 6:31 pm | delete
- Thank you very much!
-
- Load More
Do you have a Gallery or other Art Link?
You are invited to put your Store, Gallery, or Art Link in this list.
Let's link up and help one another!
Casey Shannon Studio
Original and elegant Brush Paintings by Casey Shan more...1 point
Casey Shannon Art Studio: Home: Zazzle.com Gallery
Beautiful and elegant Sumi-e prints and cards from more...1 point
Ann Nall Pet Portraits
Beautiful pet portraits capturing the animals spir more...1 point
Simple Spirit Wildlife Watercolor
Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh my!
Unique........ more...1 point
Dog portraits
Turn your photos into beautiful 100% handmade pain more...1 point
Pet Portraits
Turn your pet photos into beautiful pet portraits. more...1 point
Transform Your Art with Color
Using interesting colors is one of the most dynami more...1 point
Casey Shannon Studio Blog
Sumi information galore! News of the studio.1 point
Portrait Artists Gallery
Commission family portraits, pet portraits and mor more...1 point
With Love - cards for all Occasions
Greeting Cards & invitations for all occasions more...0 points
DizzyChi - Design & Illustration
Kid's Keds shoes, mugs, mousepads & more!0 points
Artistic Intuition Artistic Intuition
Enrich Your Creative Nature With The Joy of Art0 points
Lily Wang, Garden Haiku poet
Lily Wang is an award-winning international poet, more...0 points
Pencil Portraits and Sketches
Sketches, charcoal, pastel and colored pencil port more...0 points
Fabulous Books from Amazon!
These are not to be missed.....some of my favorites.
Other Gems!
More Little Gems.....
Great Books on Amazon
Books you may enjoy!
Wonderful Reference Book!
After Stroke: Enhancing Quality of Life
Go here to read an excerpt of my contribution:
Stroke Resource Books
Need some assistance?
Donate to the Stroke Network
Stroke Network
Donate to Rising Star Outreach
Rising Star's mission is to help Leprosy colonies become thriving, self-sufficient communities. They are accomplishing this through three major initiatives: to educate the colony children in a safe and healthy environment, to provide leprosy patients with their own small businesses using micro-finance, and to address the unique health challenges of the colonies with mobile medical unitsLeprosy is curable. Rising Star Outreach seeks to defeat it. Even so, people who have contracted leprosy must often spend their lives completely isolated from society, although they may have been cured. They, and members of their families, sometimes find it impossible to marry, receive education or find work. An estimated 100 million people worldwide are victims of this discrimination. In India there are over 700 "leprosy colonies" where the stigma of leprosy is inevitably perpetuated. If caught early enough, Leprosy can be stopped before it ravages a body and ruins a life.
Please consider supporting this incredible organization.
Go to their site and learn more: Rising Star Outreach
Be part of the change!
Donate and save a Cheetah
Help Save the Cheetah!
by CaseyShannonStudio
My artistic journey began, like many artists, in grammar school and continued through high school. I seemed to be happiest and closest to my spirit with... more »
- 4 featured lenses
- Winner of 4 trophies!
- Top lens » Casey Shannon Studio Sumi-e Art
Explore related pages
- Psychedelic Zen - Original Artwork Psychedelic Zen - Original Artwork
- How to Fold the Origami Sonobe Module Unit How to Fold the Origami Sonobe Module Unit
- International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society
- Buddha Pillows-Art Pillows With Buddha Art Buddha Pillows-Art Pillows With Buddha Art
- Feng Shui House Feng Shui House
- Art for Cancer Group Art for Cancer Group

































