Sumi-e Kit

Rating:
Summary: Illustrated examples disappointing; supplies okay
Review: Don't buy this book because of its cover illustrations. I did and was disappointed that there were no lessons or illustrations in the book for the bird painting or the fish on the cover.
Incidentally, the illustrations in the book are poor. I suppose the directions for painting are okay, but the point of example and illustration is to inspire the artist to want to paint beautifully.
The supplies (3 brushes, ink stone, ink sticks and paper) in the kit seem okay but I was so disappointed in the book I am returning it without using the supplies.
In my opinion, Ning Yeh's book Chinese Painting: An Instructional Guide, is much better and has all the subjects and more. Sumi-e is based on Chinese brush painting so the styles are much the same.
If you are looking for a kit that has everything you need and you just want to try Chinese brush/Sumi-e, the kit I first used was Chinese Brush Painting (masterclass) by Pauline Cherrett. If you decide you are serious about brush painting get Ning Yeh's book (or books) and visit his website:

Rating:
Summary: Illustrated examples disappointing; supplies okay
Review: Don't buy this book because of its cover illustrations. I did and was disappointed that there were no lessons or illustrations in the book for the bird painting or the fish on the cover.
Incidentally, the illustrations in the book are poor. I suppose the directions for painting are okay, but the point of example and illustration is to inspire the artist to want to paint beautifully.
The supplies (3 brushes, ink stone, ink sticks and paper) in the kit seem okay but I was so disappointed in the book I am returning it without using the supplies.
In my opinion, Ning Yeh's book Chinese Painting: An Instructional Guide, is much better and has all the subjects and more. Sumi-e is based on Chinese brush painting so the styles are much the same.
If you are looking for a kit that has everything you need and you just want to try Chinese brush/Sumi-e, the kit I first used was Chinese Brush Painting (masterclass) by Pauline Cherrett. If you decide you are serious about brush painting get Ning Yeh's book (or books) and visit his website:

Rating:
Summary: give this one a pass
Review: I agree with Ann. I have been teaching and practicing this artform for a number of years and purchase most books I find on the topic. This one is among the worst. There are no clear instructions, very poor quality equipment, and I suspect if this was a person's first introduction to brush painting it would be their last. Instead, see Ning Yeh for the very best instruction manuals and videos, along with some very good introductions by Pauline Charrett, Susan Frame, Jane Evans and Nan Rae. The best brushes and authentic chip colours can be ordered from Ning Yeh at AOS, and the best paper, ink and stones, along with high quality brushes from Acornplanet.