Beginning and continuing students will learn the ancient and dynasty-old traditions of Chinese Brush Painting, including grinding your own Sumi Ink, loading the ink onto your Calligraphy Brush, and applying the Brush Strokes to rice paper, to create Bamboo and Flowers and more.  Students will also learn Chinese  symbolism & philosophy of this serene style of painting.

As a Chinese Brush Artist, Andrea Allen has developed a unique style that combines the traditions of the Chinese Masters with a subtle, contemporary flair. She studied with a Chinese Master for six years, and has been painting and teaching in this style for over twenty years.

Andrea utilizes many ancient Chinese techniques such as grinding her own Sumi ink, often mixing it with watercolor, loading the calligraphy brush, and applying it to handmade rice paper, with a minimal number of strokes to complete each painting.  She carefully balances the unpainted and painted spaces in each composition, creating a tranquil flow throughout each painting.

Ancient Chinese symbolism and philosophy influence her work, enhancing the feeling of  vital energy  and serenity.  The inherent effect is for the viewer to be effortlessly invited into  each painting, to experience a peaceful balance and harmony in a timeless continuum.

Andrea has exhibited extensively throughout the Bay Area, including the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. She teaches several classes in Chinese Brush painting for beginning and experienced students. Andrea also welcomes creating custom paintings, upon request.