Our fourth graders are currently learning about the art of traditional Chinese painting. This painting method uses different concentrations of soot-based ink to create different tones. Calligraphic lines are used to create meditative and ephemeral works, often representing nature. While there are many beautiful examples of colored inks being used as well, our studies are centered on monochromatic bamboo paintings. Bamboo symbolizes the ideal Chinese gentleman, who like bamboo, bends under adversity but does not break.
