Wild Pansies Painting by Linda Smith. Chinese calligraphy translation: "Taking the first step starts a thousand-mile journey." I have always been intrigued by traditional Asian ink paintings, and when Oriental Ink Painting (Sumi-E) was offered at a local college over 25 years ago, I immediately signed up. I took the course so that I might have an understanding of Chinese painting, but I found that it has given me a greater understanding of life itself. I discovered Sumi-E as a powerful source of self-expression and a pathway to personal spiritual experiences in nature. Oriental Ink Painting is the oldest living art in the world, possessing a beauty that transcends time. It is a classic, elegant and gentle art form with a beautiful philosophy that inspires my own life and values. There is a spiritual dimension in the discipline of Chinese painting which becomes a meditative experience. For those interested in eastern philosophy, Chinese painting is a most concrete and specific means to approach the elusive nature of Daoism and Buddhism.

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