Key Information
Date: Saturday, 6 June 2026
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Student Level:
This course is suitable for both beginners and advanced students. It also works well as a follow-up for students who have previously attended Chinese landscape painting classes, although prior experience is not required.
Location: This class will take place in the garden of Abden House, 1 Marchhall Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 5HP.
Why Should I Take This Course?
Chinese brush painting is a traditional art form that beautifully captures the spirit of nature. In this course, we will focus on outdoor painting, combining the techniques of Shan Shui (mountain and water) painting with the unique character of the Scottish landscape.
Taking inspiration from the picturesque surroundings of Abden House, the home of the Confucius Institute, the workshop will combine indoor instruction with outdoor sketching and painting, weather permitting. You will learn how to capture landscape forms using Chinese brushes and ink while incorporating Scottish scenery into your work.
What Does It Cover?
Live demonstrations will be provided throughout the workshop, and the tutor will guide you in applying the techniques to your own paintings. Participants are also welcome to bring their own photo references for inspiration.
Chinese brush painting is not only a visual art form but also a calming and meditative practice that can help improve focus and reduce stress. This workshop offers a wonderful opportunity to paint in nature and experience the peaceful rhythm of brush and ink.
About the Teacher
This course will be led by Chi Zhang, an experienced instructor featured in the BBC documentary Loop – The Art of Chinese Brush Painting. Chi was shortlisted for Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2015, and his calligraphy was projected onto Edinburgh Castle during the 2015 Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
For more information and to view Chi’s artwork, visit: www.chizhangartist.com
Cost: £40 (all materials included)
Booking & Further Information
To ensure the best learning experience, class sizes are limited. Please register by using the Form HERE.
For more information, or to arrange one-to-one tutorials or small group workshops, please email: info@confuciusinstitute.ac.uk