Susie Collis

 

Susie has been painting for some 35 years. After moving to Bruny Island in 1999 she began studying Chan ink painting , under Melba Nielsen and the late Andre Sollier.

The inspiration for most of her paintings comes from the beautiful natural surrounds of Bruny Is. and its many (non-human!) inhabitants.

 

These unique cards and prints are from original Chan ink paintings by Susie Collis.They are printed using archival quality ink and rag cotton paper. More than just a card/print – they are a – ‘little piece of art ‘

Which could be used to ...write a message...send a greeting...pin...or frame.

Chan (Zen) painting is grounded in Buddhism and dates back to early 12th century China.Traditionally they depicted nature, often with a little humour.

It is a method of ‘one-stroke’ or ‘one- breath’ painting. That is each brush stroke, once made, cannot be reworked. The artist must work without conscious thought or ego intruding ( a Zen mind) in order to capture the actual ‘spirit’ or essence’ of a subject, making Chan art suggestive rather than literally representational. Although it is a style based on strict principles – once learnt – spontaneity is a feature. The finished piece should express the combined effect of artist, paper, ink and brush.