What is Suminagashi?
Suminagashi (墨流し), translating to "floating ink," is an ancient Japanese marbling art form with roots tracing back over a thousand years. Historically, it was cherished for its ability to decorate washi paper and create unique patterns on kimonos and other silk items. Today, this art form continues to enchant artists worldwide, blending tradition with modern creativity in contemporary design. 
An Art Workshop Beyond Art and Visual
​​​​​​​Where Art Meets Heart
While Suminagashi is rooted in ancient technique, in my workshops, it becomes a gentle bridge to mindfulness, inner stillness, and self-discovery. Rather than traditional teaching, I aim to provide a warm, peaceful environment for you to explore the natural flow of water and ink at your own pace. 
Through organic patterns, subtle aromas, calming teas, and a soothing studio ambience, this 5-senses journey helps you disconnect from daily pressures, let go of perfectionism, and enjoy a true "Muße" moment.
Here, water and ink act as a quiet mirror for the mind—inviting you to "Dive Deep and Dissolve," embrace the unexpected, and reunite with your own "Unexpected Beauty" in the here and now. ​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​As you let the ink and colours flow freely on the water, your creativity flows freely, too! You'll create beautiful organic patterns as unique as your own stories. You might be amazed at how much you immerse yourself in the process and the sense of freedom and peace you feel as you start to let go, embrace uncertainty, and trust your instincts.
Come as you are. This art requires no prior art skills or experience, just a heart open to let go and watch the magic unfold. As you watch the ink flow on the water, forming beautiful patterns, your worries seem to drift away, and a sense of lightness fills your heart.
Meet Hailey
I am a designer and artist with a deep passion for Suminagashi. For over seven years, I’ve been hosting workshops across Europe and Asia, exploring how this ancient craft blends with contemporary design and mindfulness—from hands-on sessions to creative collaborations like my Suminagashi limited-edition camera design with Lomography.
For me, sharing Suminagashi isn't just about art technique. It’s about creating a welcoming space where you can pause, connect with yourself and others, and rediscover the joy of creating at your own pace.
From Hong Kong to Europe
My journey with Suminagashi began in Hong Kong and eventually led me across Europe. When I first started hosting workshops in Germany, I was deeply touched by the kindness of a wonderful group of therapists and artist friends. They opened their doors to me and supported me so much along the way. I am forever grateful for their warmth and belief in my work during those foundational moments.

And I am so happy to share this beautiful art form with so many wonderful participants and friends around the world. Some participants told me that Suminagashi has become a Muße in their lives, and they continue to practice it at home. Knowing the impact of this art extends beyond workshops fills my heart with boundless joy, gratitude, and inspiration! 
New Chapter
Our Home Base: Soulea
After moving to Hamburg in 2024, my journey evolved into a big, exciting new chapter. Together with my co-founder Nico, a yoga teacher and stress management coach, we built Soulea —— a dedicated hub in Hamburg created for community events, mindfulness workshops, and meaningful gatherings.
Soulea is a space for community events, mindfulness gatherings, and holistic experiences, and my Suminagashi workshops naturally found a home here as a resident practice.
We are currently preparing the space behind the scenes for its official grand opening, but we are just so happy to use our private space for early creative testing and private art sessions ahead of time!
While Soulea will be my base for hosting Suminagashi workshops, I am always open to new collaborations! With my Suminagashi suitcase, I can travel to different cities and spaces worldwide for pop-up workshops, corporate sessions, and brand collaborations.
Interested in joining this wonderful Suminagashi journey? Let's grab a coffee and chat!
You can reach out to me directly at why.hailey@gmail.com 
Collaborations and Recognitions
Achievements & Recognitions
Simple Use Film Camera–Optimistic Ox
With a passion for collaboration and merging tradition art with modern design, I’d love to share this heartfelt collaboration, Simple Use Film Camera-Optimistic Ox Edition, with you.

I collaborated with global teams from packaging design to product photography and design materials. We created this camera design blending with my Suminagashi art, aiming to send hope and strength to the world during the challenging pandemic in 2021.  And I am deeply honoured and grateful to DesignRush for recognising my Design as one of the Top Gadget Packaging Designs in 2023.
Testimonials
More Photos from the past workshops
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