Western interpretations of traditional Chinese painting techniques
What is Splash Ink with Watercolor?
The splash ink-and-watercolor painting method has its roots in the principles of the Tang dynasty in China. It is an innovative technique that elevates the traditional approach of Chinese painting, known as po mo. The process of creating this art is simple yet fascinating. The artist pours premixed watercolor paint and black Asian sumi-e ink onto layers of "ma rice" paper, allowing the colors to mix as they flow. The magic happens when the pieces are left to dry and returned the next day. The result is a pure abstract form that can be left as an abstract painting if it appears striking. If it doesn't, the artist must wait for the piece to speak, revealing a glimpse of nature that can further define the work with watercolor painting. It could be a rushing river, a hillside overlooking the ocean, or brilliant clouds at dawn. The beauty of this technique lies in its random, unpredictable nature, which makes each painting unique. The skill in interpretation and coaxing a new vignette of the natural world in the work has set the artist apart as a master of this contemporary technique. Splash ink with watercolor painting expresses an exceptional and modern view of nature, allowing the artist to let go of control and enjoy freedom, creativity, and imagination!
The winner of the Contemporary Art Collector Award
Link to the two-page publication
https://www.
Workshop done in 2025!
Art Tour Taiwan April 11th to 22nd, 2025. We had a wonderful trip!
Vacation Workshop, Le Vieux Couvent, France, July 11h to 11th, 2025. Beautiful Southern France!
Cloudcroft Art Workshop
July 22nd - 25th, 2025. It was a wonderful trip to this little Charming mountain town.
New style of Mineral and Water Splash ink painting workshop
August 11-14, 2025 / Artisan Albuquerque
Great workshop! Wonderful students! They love her and demo. Paintings sold out!
2026 workshops / Japan Art Tour
On an inspiring artistic journey with acclaimed artists Ming Franz and Rita Carpenter on the Japan Art Tour frMarch 15 March 15h 25 25, 2026. Experience the beauty of iconic locations and unleash your creativity through sketching at each breathtaking site.
Périgord Retreat, Dourgone, France
June 10th - 19th. 2026 / It was a real dream vacation. We got to visit the Musée d'Orsay and the Louver.
Cotswolds, England Vacation and Workshop
September 14th - 24th , 2026. Most Enjoyable trip
I am thrilled to announce my upcoming art tour to the Cotswolds in England frSeptember 14 14 to 24, 2026. The Cotswolds are renowned for their picturesque "honey-hued" stone villages and charming market towns, set amid rolling hills. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is celebrated for its quintessential English countryside charm, historic architecture, and rich history that has inspired writers and filmmakers, attracting visitors for centuries. Fees: $3650.00. The tour spans 10 days and 9 nights, with local excursions and painting sessions included. Lodging, three meals a day, and transportation are all covered. Contact Ming for more details. Https://www.mingfranzstudio.com. / [email protected] / 1-505-281-4956
Tuscany, Italy, September 2027
I am thrilled to announce my upcoming trip to Italy, where I will collaborate with Rita Carpenter, a renowned watercolorist and travel art instructor, for a creative adventure.
Join Ming and Rita for a creative retreat nestled in the heart of Chianti
at Ancora, perfectly situated between Florence and Siena. Mark your calendars fSeptember 22 October 22r 2r 2, 2027. The experience is $3,600 per person, based on double occupancy.
Our itinerary promises full days exploring the wonders of Florence and Siena, along with delightful excursions to Panzano, Greve, and the medieval towers of San Gimignano. We will also devote several days to creative immersion in our studio.
Our home for the retreat will be Ancora del Chianti Country B&B, just outside Greve in Chianti, embraced by vineyards and ancient olive groves. The centerpiece is a charming 200-year-old farmhouse.
Perched atop a hill, the stone farmhouse radiates tranquility and rustic charm, offering sweeping views of the Tuscan landscape.
Guests are invited to unwind or let their creativity flow in the on-site studio. Each meal is thoughtfully crafted from a set menu, featuring the freshest local and seasonal ingredients.
Thank you for your continued interest. Please reserve your spot soon, and feel free to contact Rita or me at any time for more information or to register.
Rita Carpenter / 1-608-289-6876 Ming Franz / 1-505-281-4956
[email protected] [email protected]m
Malaga, Spain.Vacation and Workshop
10-04-27 to 10-14-27
Join Art on the Fly (Rita Carpenter) and Artist Ming Franz in Costa Del Sol, Spain. Enjoy La Finca del Niño from Oct. 4–14, 2027.
Leaving the USA October 3rd; arriving at Malaga airport (AGP) October 4 th, 2027 (leave the same airport October 14th, 2027). This trip is not only a travel adventure that includes day trips to blanco "white" villages, markets, and excellent sources for photography; it is also a trip to relax and enjoy painting in watercolor ( if you choose ) in
the sunshine of Spain. Ming Franz will teach Asian brushwork, which includes florals.
Costa Del Sol is a wonderful and exciting place to visit. La Finca del Niño. Mangos grown at La Finca. This area of Southern Spain is known for beautiful landscapes, fabulous beaches, delicious food, and interesting customs and traditions. It means discovering a rich cultural heritage.
Trip cost is $ 3,600. 10-night stay includes many day trips in the Costa del Sol area such as Nerja, Benagalbon, Rhonda, Malaga, Torre Del Mar, etc. Included: all meals except lunch in Rhonda and Malaga (including wine at dinner). Single room supplement is $300 ( some share a bathroom )
Not included: airfare and transfers between AGP Malaga airport and La Finca del Niño (arrangements can be made for pickup/drop-off; it's approximately 60 euros depending on the size of the vehicle). We can
arrange a shared taxi if you are arriving at a similar time with other participants.
Contact: Rita Carpenter / 1-608-289-6876 / [email protected] / www.artonthefly.net
Ming Franz / 1-505-281-4956 / [email protected] / www.mingfranzstudio.com
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