Over the past two months, I’ve had the joy of hosting Suminagashi workshops for adults, and–the first time in Hamburg– for preteens. While the core philosophy of Suminagashi remains the same, the approach I take for each group is carefully designed to meet their unique needs. These workshops are not about mastering an art technique but about using art as a gentle guide to connect with something deeper within ourselves.
For the adults, the workshop was an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with their inner calm. Many came with the weight of everyday life on their shoulders, yet as they dipped their brushes into the ink and let it flow on the water, I could see their energy shift. The swirls of ink became a mirror to their emotions—sometimes calm, sometimes chaotic, but always beautiful in their own way. Through the process, we spoke about mindfulness, letting go of perfection, and embracing the present moment. It was inspiring to see how they allowed themselves the freedom to simply be.
In contrast, the preteens brought an entirely different energy to their workshop—vibrant, curious, and unfiltered. They came with no expectations, ready to explore and have fun. Their trays of water reflected this boundless energy, with bold swirls and playful movements that felt alive. For the younger participants, I designed the workshop experience to focus on soft skills rather than the art itself. Through the process, they learned about patience, focus, teamwork, acceptance, and the beauty of self-expression. I encouraged them to take to heart the idea that there is no right or wrong in Suminagashi—only the joy of creating. They were invited to embrace the process, to let go of the need for perfection, and to expect the unexpected, just like in life. They discovered how their emotions influence the patterns they create and how to channel their energy into something meaningful. It was a beautiful reminder that even the unpredictable can lead to something extraordinary.
What I love most about working with kids or preteens is their openness—they embrace the present moment without overthinking. Watching them dive into the process with joy and curiosity reminded me of the importance of staying connected to that free-spirited energy within ourselves. They didn’t come to learn an art form or to create something “perfect.” They came to be free, to explore, and to enjoy the moment—and that in itself was the most beautiful creation of all.
In these workshops, I was reminded once again of how Suminagashi is more than just an art form. It’s a journey of self-discovery, a reflection of our energy, and an invitation to pause and connect with the present. Whether with adults who are seeking calm or preteens who are brimming with curiosity, the experience of watching ink dance on water becomes a shared moment of beauty and mindfulness.
These workshops always leave me feeling inspired and grateful. I’m honoured to hold space for participants to explore not just art but also themselves through this ancient practice. It’s a privilege to witness how each tray of water becomes a reflection of the unique energy and stories each person brings, and how, in turn, these creations guide us to a deeper understanding of ourselves.
I was especially touched by the feedback I received from one participant in the adult workshop last month. Evgeniya shared:
Her words mean so much to me, as they reflect the heart of what I aim to offer in each workshop—a safe, welcoming space for individuals to explore, create, and reconnect with themselves. As I continue to design and host workshops for different groups, I’m more committed than ever to creating experiences that go beyond art.
