Practicing shapes

I’m still just working with the “magic cloth,” but today felt like a major step, as I followed along with one of Henry Li’s recorded zoom lessons, just getting comfortable with making some basic lines and shapes and practicing various brush strokes. I’m already finding that I’m feeling more comfortable and confident with the fluidity of this style of painting, versus what little experience I’ve had with western style painting and drawing. Not only does the feel and appearance of the technique resonate with me aesthetically on a visceral level, but I found practicing along with the instructor and students in the video to instill me with a sense of calm and groundedness. I’m going to tread lightly and hold myself gently, and resist the urge to chastise myself for not yet “jumping in” with actual ink and paper just yet. Although it’s easy for me to compare these “baby steps” unfavorably with the advanced work and finished product of others, in truth I’m quite pleased with my initial attempts at a house, a yin-yang symbol, and a grouping of rocks: