Japanese sumi-e painting class in Milan
Kaoru Hirose
Milan becomes the starting point to delve into the ancient technique of Sumi-e, guided by Kaoru Hirose, an expert in this Japanese art. Through this practice, you will learn how to transform ink and paper into expressions full of harmony and meaning.
The online Sumi-e classes with Kaoru Hirose are designed to suit all levels, from beginners to experienced artists. In each session, you will explore the possibilities of this unique technique, developing artistic skills while delving into the cultural richness of Japan. An experience that connects tradition and creativity from your personal space in Milan.
Timetable and prices of our Japanese Sumi-e painting classes
Monday
Advanced level
From 10:30 to 12:00
Wednesday
Basic level (English and Spanish)
From 18:30 to 20:00
Thursday
Advanced level
From 18:45 to 20:15
Friday
Intermediate level
From 18:00 to 19:30
Online classes: 82 euros per month (4 classes per month) - Test class: 20 euros
Personal classes: 39 euros (33 euros for online students)
Give the gift of art! Gift voucher - Sumi-e course
- Would you like to give someone a course as a gift? Choose the date(s) of the course you would like to give from this page. If you don’t know the dates, you can put the expiry date of 6 months on the voucher. Now contact me for payment processing.
- I will send you the voucher as the image in PDF format with the size of the postcard (10x15cm). You can use the PDF as it is or you can print it, it looks very nice! If you want I can put the name of the person who receives the voucher.
Why choose Sumi-e classes with Kaoru Hirose in Milan?
Discover a unique artistic tradition
Sumi-e is more than a painting technique; it is a way of connecting with the essence of nature through precise and meaningful strokes. With Kaoru Hirose, you will learn this discipline of Japanese origin, exploring the principles that have made it a timeless art.
Learn at your own pace
Every student has a different approach and different needs. That’s why Kaoru Hirose’s classes are designed to suit your level, whether you are a curious beginner or an artist looking to perfect your technique. Personalised sessions ensure effective and enriching learning.
Enjoy a creative and relaxing experience
From the comfort of your own home in Milan, these online classes offer you an ideal environment to immerse yourself in the world of Sumi-e. Through practical exercises and detailed explanations, you will find a form of expression that encourages both creativity and inner tranquillity.
Do you want to give a workshop as a gift?
Enter the world of Sumi-e in Milan with Kaoru Hirose, a renowned expert in this ancient technique.
Immerse yourself in the art of Sumi-e with Kaoru Hirose from Milan. These online classes are ideal for both beginners and artists who wish to broaden their creative horizons. Explore this Japanese technique steeped in tradition, where each stroke reflects balance, sensitivity and connection with nature.
On our website you will find all the information you need to join these lessons. Designed to suit your level and goals, Kaoru Hirose will offer you personalised guidance to discover your own style while learning the fundamentals of Sumi-e.
During each session, Kaoru will share her passion for this ancient art, teaching you how to work with ink, perfect the fluidity of the brushstrokes and capture the essence that makes Sumi-e unique.
Take advantage of this opportunity! Let Sumi-e transform your artistic perspective and enhance your creativity in every detail.
What do they think of us?
Frequently asked questions about Sumi-e Japanese painting courses in Milan
Milan is a city that combines precision, design and beauty in every detail. That is why learning Sumi-e — Japanese painting that expresses the balance between gesture and silence — connects perfectly with Milanese aesthetic sensibility. Through online classes with Kaoru Hirose, you can discover an art form that combines elegance, calm and inner expression.
The classes are designed to adapt to your pace. They are taught live, but with flexible schedules, ideal for those who live in busy cities. Many students in Milan choose them as a space to disconnect and concentrate in the midst of their daily routine, transforming study time into a mindful break.
No. Sumi-e is based on observation and breathing rather than technique. Kaoru Hirose teaches everything from the first strokes to complete composition, guiding each student according to their level and style. It is ideal for both artists and those seeking balance and creativity.
All you need is a Japanese brush, sumi ink, an inkstone and rice paper (washi or hanshi). You can easily purchase these online or at art shops in Milan. If you are interested in learning more about Eastern artistic traditions, we recommend visiting the Museo d'Arte Orientale (MAO) in Turin, a national reference point for Japanese art.
Sumi-e combines art and meditation. It helps improve concentration, reduce stress and develop a more attentive and balanced outlook. In Milan, many students practise it as an exercise in visual mindfulness: a way to reconnect with silence amid the hustle and bustle of city life.
Simply fill out the form on this page. You will receive an email with confirmation, the access link, and available schedules. Classes are taught online, in a friendly and flexible environment, with personalised support from Kaoru Hirose.
Japanese Sumi-e painting classes in other cities
Contact
Blog
How to paint bamboo in sumi-e, step by step
Bamboo is one of the most iconic motifs in sumi-e and, at the same time, one of the best exercises for understanding how this art form works. Although at first glance it may seem a simple shape, painting bamboo in sumi-e requires brush control, rhythm, observation and a good understanding of negative space and brushwork.
SKETCHBOOK REVIVAL CHALLENGE 2026
I’m honored to be an instructor at this year’s Sketchbook Revival Challenge—a free, flexible event designed to help you reconnect with drawing, painting, and the joy of creating. How it works: Get a sketchbook Sign up for free to explore techniques before April 11 https://sumi_e2026–sketchbookrevival.thrivecart.com/sbr2026-challenge-aff/ If you enjoy it, join the challenge from April 11–21,
Brush exercises for beginners: 10 minutes a day to improve your sumi-e strokes
In sumi-e, you don’t “fix” a stroke: you learn to do it with intention. That’s why, before painting bamboo, plum trees or landscapes, it’s a good idea to practise the essentials: control, pressure, ink load and fluidity. In this routine, you’ll find brush exercises for beginners designed to be practised for just 10 minutes a
How to frame and preserve an ink artwork: paper, glass, humidity and light
A work in ink on paper (such as sumi-e) is delicate by nature: the medium “breathes”, the ink interacts with time and the environment (light, humidity, heat) can accelerate ageing. If you want to understand why paper, ink and brushes have such a big impact on the result (and also on its preservation), start with
