"Embracing the Flow"
Where My Suminagashi Journey Began
Where My Suminagashi Journey Began
As a part-time children’s art teacher, I focus on fostering children's creativity by exploring various artistic mediums.
I believed that nurturing young minds required a diverse range of artistic styles, which led me to a quest to discover more new techniques and forms of expression with them. During that exploration, I stumbled upon Suminagashi, a Japanese art form that would ultimately change my life.
I believed that nurturing young minds required a diverse range of artistic styles, which led me to a quest to discover more new techniques and forms of expression with them. During that exploration, I stumbled upon Suminagashi, a Japanese art form that would ultimately change my life.
While I had been learning 工筆畫 (Gongbi Painting), a traditional Chinese art form that emphasises detail and precision, my curiosity and desire to expand my artistic repertoire led me to explore more about Suminagashi.
Suminagashi is a fluid, unpredictable process where ink is floated on the water, creating mesmerising patterns that can never be replicated. This art form allowed me to embrace uncertainty, let go of control, and fully immerse myself in the present moment.
Embracing both these art forms has been like learning two different languages of expression—each informing the other, and both expanding my understanding of what it means to create. Gongbi, with its disciplined beauty, teaches me the value of patience and the significance of each deliberate line. Suminagashi, in its ephemeral dance, reminds me of the joy found in letting go and the artistry of embracing the unexpected.
As my exploration of Suminagashi deepened, I began weaving it into my children's art classes. Soon, I was hosting workshops for adults and curating team-building events for companies. These experiences presented opportunities to connect with a diverse array of individuals, each possessing unique stories and perspectives.
My journey with Suminagashi has led me from Hong Kong to Europe, giving me the chance to share this Japanese art form with my friends worldwide. I will never forget the experience of sharing Suminagashi art with a lovely Czech family. Despite language differences, we connected deeply through the universal languages of art and laughter. We explored the Suminagashi art in their kitchen, surrounded by warmth and hospitality.
It’s incredibly wonderful to hear from participants who tell me that Suminagashi has become a Muße practice in their daily lives, continuing the practice long after the workshop has ended. Knowing that the influence of this beautiful art form stretches beyond our sessions and into participants’ homes fills me with great joy, gratitude, and so much inspiration as I plan future workshops!
From Ancient Waves to Modern Lines
As a designer, I began exploring new ways to combine Suminagashi with modern design and digital media. This ongoing exploration has been both exciting and fulfilling, allowing me to continually grow as an artist.
A few years later, I had the opportunity to bring my Suminagashi art to modern product design: Lomography Simple Use Film Camera - Optimistic Ox Edition, and workshops overseas to bring the concept behind it to a global audience. I am incredibly grateful for the unexpected adventures life has brought my way and the beautiful memories I've created along the journey.
Suminagashi has not only transformed my art but also my perspective on life. By embracing the unpredictable nature of this art form, I've learned to let go of control and cherish each moment as it comes.
Through sharing Suminagashi with others, I have connected with countless individuals and their unique stories, further enriching my experiences. As I continue to explore the depths of this beautiful art form, I look forward to the new memories and connections that await.
Message from some participants :
" The workshop with Hailey was pure Bliss. She shares this beautiful technique in a very calm and peaceful way. I felt very taken care of and was grateful for every little hint and encouragement to try something new during the process. I especially loved how she emphasised the meditative aspect of Suminagashi and connected it with the philosophy of Life, to Go step by step – regardless but in harmony with the waves of the water/the world." – Cora.
" Having been curious about Suminagashi but not actually knowing a thing, I attended a sharing Hailey had arranged. Quickly, I came to realise that she is not only extremely passionate about this art form but also very skilful in its execution as well as in sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm. It really didn’t take long for her passion and expertise to spill over in such fun and relaxed atmosphere that to this day, I’m fascinated by this beautiful technique, further exploring its practice whenever circumstances allow. Yay! " – Sebastian.
