Ink Paintings: Insights into the Heart of Zen

Dramatic blacks and pearly grays evoke profound scenes. Originating in China, ink painting was once part of Zen monks' ascetic training. It reveals the beauty of space in a simple, refined state and captivates the viewer, while conveying the Zen tenets. The art form took hold and matured in Kyoto in the 15th C. with masters, such as Josetsu and Sesshu, and Jakuchu in modern times, wielding great influence on the genre. Discover how ink painting evolved in the austere, spiritual climate of Kyoto.