An inkstick, a solid ink traditionally used in East Asian calligraphy, becomes liquid ink when mixed with water and rubbed on a container called an inkstone. It is a very unique painting material that allows the artist to freely control the color and texture of the ink.
While chemically synthesized ink can be mass-produced in a short time with uniform color, it lacks the depth and richness of handmade inksticks. Handmade inksticks with finer soot particles have a unique deep black color that cannot be reproduced by chemically synthesized ink. This is because the process by which paper absorbs ink is different.
When an inkstick is rubbed by hand on an inkstone, the ink color changes slightly according to the way of each individual calligrapher. Therefore, it is possible to create artistic expressions that cannot be achieved with modern synthetic inks. The process of rubbing an inkstick on an inkstone is also a meditative experience that cannot be had with modern inks.
Sumi-e ( ink wash painting in Japanese ), a monochrome art form using ink and handmade paper, has greatly influenced many Western artists. The aesthetics and philosophy of Sumi-e, with its focus on minimalism, abstraction, and the essence of the subject, have been integral to many movements in Western art, including Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, and Minimalism.
Some Western artists have also contributed to the global recognition and continuity of this art form by incorporating Sumi-e techniques and materials to create their own unique works of art while exploring the possibilities of Sumi-e. One ink wash painter says that when he paints with inksticks made the old-fashioned way, he is able to express the air between the mountains in the distance and the place where the viewer is now standing in a monochrome world of black and white.
inksticks in Japan are special because of their form, composition and manufacturing process. It is made of soot, natural glue and natural fragrances and has a unique aroma. The ingredients are mixed together, kneaded into sticks and dried for more than four years. This process uses knowledge and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.
The artisans who make inksticks in Kobaien change the mixture of glue, soot and water to the optimum amount each morning according to the temperature and humidity. Even in this ever-changing natural environment, the artisan's experience allows him to consistently produce the highest quality inkstick.
Kobaien's ink production is based on traditional methods and natural materials that do not prioritize efficiency. It is a very inefficient method, completely different from modern industrial methods that prioritize efficiency. However, it is precisely because of this that the natural color of soot, which is infinite, can be brought out to the maximum.
How does Kobaien manufacture sumi ink sticks?
Are you a little surprised by the title of this video below?, haha. The title is a bit surprising, but this is an up-to-date and must-watch video introducing Kobaien's inkstick production.
After watching this short 12-minute video, you will understand why this rather unusual title was chosen.
How to use sumi inksticks?
Ms. Junko Azukawa, a contemporary calligrapher and ink painter in Australia, explains how to use stickinks.
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Let customers speak for us
from 75 reviews
Definitely be using Earth Paper again.
Kobaien Earth Paper has an interesting texture as you can feel the small amount of earth in it.
It does buckle/crease with too much moisture, so I dry mounted it onto a 300gsm card and then I was able to build up many layers of colour with fine edges.
With the moisture in each layer the paper would swell slightly, but then dry flat.
Working in this way I was able to obtain depth of colour and subtlety of shading.
I used Suibokugayou Aozumi ink, Saibiboku colours with the addition of gamboge yellow and white.
Now that the painting is framed the paper seems to glow - it is quite exquisite. It took me a little while to get used to it, but I will definitely be using Earth Paper again.
It's a very high quality ink that helps me to create great works of art. Very beautiful black colour and beautiful shades. Even when very thinned with water this ink is still very subtle.
I am very pleased with the variety and selection of Uda Gami washi that I have received. The four color tones in my order: Akebi, Yomogi, Sakura, and Ai, are as pleasing to the eye as their texture. I feel honored to be a very small part of the tradition to which the Fukunishi family in Yoshino, Nara brings great honor.
Furthermore, my order was packaged with great care, and arrived safely and securely. The enclosed letter and handwritten remark brought a smile.
I have been using this ink since I started sumi-e five yeats ago. It is consistently predictable in the tesults you get. It is easy to work with even for a beginner.
The color is beautiful and the range of shades is outstanding from dark black to blueish gray. The ink has a very smooth feel as it is applied to the paper.
I praised the ink for not hindering the smoothness of the brush movement, and for its fragrance and staying power, remaining usable overnight without drying up.
I am so thankful to be able to use such an incredible ink stick. It is an honor and a joy. In addition to the quality of the product, the customer service from ICHI inc. Japan has been amazing. Kind communication, prompt service and delivery, and care and thoughtfulness at every step of the process. I couldn't be happier!
Lovely smooth stone good weight and great to see the ink pool at the dip. Its useful because the ink has plenty of room to move about and it does not spill. You can easily swill the brush to mop up remaining ink - well worth the buy
Kobaien Earth Paper has an interesting texture as you can feel the small amount of earth in it.
It does buckle/crease with too much moisture, so I dry mounted it onto a 300gsm card and then I was able to build up many layers of colour with fine edges.
With the moisture in each layer the paper would swell slightly, but then dry flat.
Working in this way I was able to obtain depth of colour and subtlety of shading.
I used Suibokugayou Aozumi ink, Saibiboku colours with the addition of gamboge yellow and white.
Now that the painting is framed the paper seems to glow - it is quite exquisite. It took me a little while to get used to it, but I will definitely be using Earth Paper again.
It's a very high quality ink that helps me to create great works of art. Very beautiful black colour and beautiful shades. Even when very thinned with water this ink is still very subtle.
I am very pleased with the variety and selection of Uda Gami washi that I have received. The four color tones in my order: Akebi, Yomogi, Sakura, and Ai, are as pleasing to the eye as their texture. I feel honored to be a very small part of the tradition to which the Fukunishi family in Yoshino, Nara brings great honor.
Furthermore, my order was packaged with great care, and arrived safely and securely. The enclosed letter and handwritten remark brought a smile.
