Casey Shannon, BFA, MS
I am a contemporary sumi-e painter reaching beyond the limits of traditional ink painting. My paintings one would not generally call traditional sumi-e. However, I adhere to the traditional sumi-e principles and philosophies, as well as, the traditional preparation before beginning a sumi-e painting. Sumi-e expresses the character and soul of the artist. As an artist, for me, Sumi-e (ink painting) is a meditation and a creative process. I concentrate on trying to capture spirit as the ink is transferred to the paper with the stroke of the brush. The brush is pushed across the surface of the paper quickly. If your intention is correct, the object in the picture seems to 'breathe and take on life'. This unseen yet felt breath begins to fill the page with spirit just as it does in all of nature which surrounds us. The special power of the painted form shines and immerses through the ink and the white page. The white space surrounding the painted form becomes as important as the object itself. The ink painting represents soul, spirit, elegance, and beauty all at the same time and in concert.
My book, "The Way To Sumi-e: Healing Through Art", is the story of my difficult and spiritual journey of recovery from a devastating brain-stem stroke. The use of art as my healing tool literally saved my life. Please enjoy my story and view my art. My heartfelt mission is to tell everyone on the planet that there is hope and life after a stroke or any traumatic life-altering experience. I want to inspire others not only with my words but also with my art.
Visit Casey's art webpage: http://www.caseyshannon.com
