Courses/Workshops 2027
Soonhwa has organized Sumi-e (Japanese ink painting) and Sumukhwa (Korean ink painting) courses and workshops in Haarlem, Amsterdam and Brussels, as well as collaborative workshops focused on handmaking with diverse artists.
In 2027, she will be focusing on other projects, so there will be no fixed schedule of courses and workshops. All of the offerings below can still take place whenever a group forms: if you are interested, please get in touch to be placed on the waiting list. As soon as there are three or more participants, she will be happy to organize a session for your group.
Sumi-e (Japanese Ink Painting) — Foundations and Beyond
8 sessions course - biweekly/weekly
This eight-session Sumi-e course offers a slow and focused introduction to traditional East Asian ink painting. It is suitable for both beginners and those with some experience in Sumi-e.
We begin with the Four Noble Ones—bamboo, orchid, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom—learning their symbolic meaning and essential brush techniques. Even when working with the same motif, each session explores different compositions and approaches, emphasising the importance of repetition as a way to deepen sensitivity and skill rather than simply repeat an image.
In later sessions, we expand to other motifs such as birds, flowers, and landscapes, and conclude with a personal final work based on each participant’s favourite motif.
The course focuses on presence, repetition, and the balance between water, ink, brush, and rice paper. Taught in a very small group, it allows for close individual guidance.
Note: No lessons during school vacation
1 day Sumi-e Private/Group Workshop
By appointment
An intimate, appointment-based Sumi-e session offering space for mindful practice and personal exploration.
Rooted in traditional Sumi-e, you may work with The Four Noble Ones—bamboo, orchid, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom—or follow your own chosen motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers, birds, or landscapes. Each session unfolds at your own pace and is adapted to your level and interests.
Experimental Ink & Painting — Unlock Your Creativity
8 sessions course - biweekly/ weekly
This course invites you to explore creativity through ink, watercolour, pigments, and a variety of surfaces — including unexpected ones.
Each session offers a playful assignment designed to spark imagination and experimentation: painting from memory, responding to everyday observations, or exploring new materials. Short introductions to inspiring classic and contemporary artists help expand your perspective and approach.
The focus is on process, discovery, and curiosity, not representation, technique, or perfection. Through guided exercises, writing prompts, and attentive exploration, you will connect materials to your own ideas, feelings, or memories, and discover what can emerge through the process.
Suitable for anyone who wants to explore, experiment, and unlock creativity in a deeper, everyday way. No prior experience required.
Creative Coaching
– Your Art Journey
By appointment
Guidance and support for developing your practice
Soonhwa offers one-on-one Creative Coaching Sessions for emerging artists and makers, drawing on her experience as an artist for over 10 years and as a designer for 25 years. Together, you will explore ways to develop your ideas, clarify your artistic direction, and present your work with confidence.
Topics may include:
Developing a concept for a new series or collection
Presenting and describing your work
Website design and developpement
Personal branding
Writing an artist statement
Colour theory
Finding the right context or place to share your art
These sessions are designed to provide the guidance Soonhwa wished she had when starting out. They are suitable for all mediums, including ink painting and ceramics.
The workshop can be taken as a single session or as multiple sessions, scheduled according to your preferred time, date, and frequency.
Duration & Fee: 1 hour: €70 per session. 5 times session: €320
Location: Leidseplein 49, Haarlem
Instructor: Soonhwa Kang