Fall 2025 Chinese Brush Painting with Henry Li

Thursdays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (Pacific Time)
October 9 – December 18, 2025 (No class November 27)
In-Person at Joslyn Center, Alhambra, CA, or Online via Zoom & Recordings

Join Us This Fall

Discover the timeless art of Chinese brush painting this autumn—where ink, water, and brush unite to tell stories steeped in tradition. Whether you join in person or online, you’ll explore seasonal subjects, refine brush techniques, and connect with the philosophies behind this art form. Each lesson blends classical subjects with creative explorations, giving you skills, cultural insight, and confidence to express your own style.

Tentative 10-Session Syllabus

Chrysanthemums in the Autumn Breeze – Rhythmic brushstrokes, warm seasonal hues, and poetic calligraphy.

Wild Geese over River Sandbars – Aerial perspective, water patterns, and bird groupings inspired by masters.

Persimmons and Blue Jays – Symbolic autumn composition after Zhang Zhengyin.

Reddish Mountains in the Style of Wei Zixi – Dramatic red foliage with mineral pigments and expressive layering.

Lotus Pods and Kingfishers – Late-season lotus with washes and negative space, paired with vivid birds.

High Mountain and Flowing Water (Fu Baoshi Style) – Split-brush textures, waterfalls, and atmospheric rocks.

Gourds and Pumpkins – Qi Baishi-style vines and fruit for festive autumn charm.

Mountain Village after Rain (Sesshu Tōyō Inspired) – Zen haboku (broken ink) landscapes with calligraphic rooftops.

Maples with Small Bird – Vibrant foliage with delicate bird forms after Zhang Zhengyin.

Horses, and Plum Blossoms in Snow – New Year’s Card Designs – Traditional blossoms with a contemporary seasonal layout.

Who Can Join

All levels welcome! Beginners will build strong foundations; experienced students will refine techniques and personal style.

In-Person 

Zoom + recording

Recording Only

Flexible Learning Options

In-person at Joslyn Center, Alhambra - please register here. 

Zoom Live + Recording Access – Join live and replay anytime.

Recording-Only Option – Learn at your own pace, anywhere.

Artwork Critique – Submit your work for Henry’s personalized feedback.

Supplies You’ll Need

Chinese brushes (soft, stiff, detail), sumi ink, Xuan or mulberry paper, watercolors or traditional pigments, palette, water containers, felt pad, paperweights, tissue, brush rest, seal (optional). Beginners can start with a Student Value Package.