Mineral pigment painting and gongbi painting each carry their own distinctive artistic language and historical lineage. This course begins with the Song dynasty classic flower-and-bird painting Camellias and Butterflies. While preserving its elegant forms and refined composition, participants will freely reinterpret it through the expressive language of contemporary mineral pigment painting.

Over three days,  participants will not only savour the subtle and exquisite spirit of Song dynasty flower-and-bird art, but also explore in depth the rich textures, luminosity, and layered depth of mineral pigments. You will master key techniques, including raised powder (li fen), glazing, surface polishing, and gold leaf application.

By the end of the workshop, every participant will complete a unique mineral pigment artwork that harmoniously blends classical elegance with contemporary aesthetics — a piece to treasure and take home.

This workshop will be hosted by HART Studio Artist Elsa Ngai.