A few months into my new chapter in Germany, I had the privilege of hosting a Suminagashi art workshop for a group of therapists. This experience was especially meaningful for me as I began my journey in a new country, weaving connections through art and mindfulness. My deepest gratitude goes to Uwe Schorb from Maltraum Hamburg for generously allowing us to use his serene and inspiring art studio.
The workshop was more than just an exploration of art—it was a day of relaxation, bonding, and self-discovery. Beyond the studio walls, we took the opportunity to create outdoors in the garden, surrounded by the gentle breeze and the calming presence of nature. It was the perfect setting for an immersive creative experience with nature, and I couldn’t have asked for a better space to share the beauty of Suminagashi.
The group came together over shared moments of creativity, accompanied by snacks and drinks, and a collective sense of calmness filled the air. It was a joyful reminder of how art can connect people on a deeper level, even across different backgrounds and life journeys.
During the session, I delved into the mindfulness philosophy behind Suminagashi, which has guided me throughout my years of practice. One fascinating observation I’ve made is how the water interacts differently with each person. It’s as if the energy of each individual leaves its own unique imprint on the patterns formed. There is no right or wrong in Suminagashi—only the flowing expression of the moment, shaped by the hand, the ink, and the water.
This interplay of energy and creativity reminded me of an important truth: our emotions and energies, while transient, do not define us. Rather, they are reflections of the moment we are in—not a fixed representation of who we are. Just as the water in Suminagashi changes with every movement, our lives evolve with every chapter we create. By embracing these changes, staying true to our hearts, and connecting with our inner moments, we become the creators of our own unique paths.
I shared this perspective with the group, and it was heartwarming to see how the therapists resonated with the parallels between Suminagashi and their own work. The process of letting go, trusting the flow, and embracing imperfection aligned beautifully with the themes of mindfulness and emotional awareness that are so central to their practice.
For me, this workshop was a profound reminder of the power of art as a bridge between people, ideas, and inner worlds. It was a gift to witness the therapists bringing their own energies into the creative process and to see how Suminagashi became a mirror of their emotions, thoughts, and personal journeys.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to share that there will be more group workshops in collaboration with inspiring spaces such as Sillem 38 with Josef and Inken, as well as Uwe’s Maltraum Hamburg studio, where I’ll be focusing on creative workshops for children and teens. I look forward to creating more opportunities for people of all ages to connect with themselves and others through the gentle, meditative art of Suminagashi.
