“Splash Ink and Watercolor Expressionism”
Blending Asian and Western Styles
All Levels
Dates: July 22-25, 2025
Cost:$450+50
Splash Ink with Watercolor is a delightful journey of breathing life with a spontaneous Western interpretation into a traditional Chinese painting technique – PoMo. Ming will introduce the students using this technique from the 8th century Tang dynasty through to its present-day expressiveness. Ming’s meticulous description of materials and techniques encourages the student to unleash the playful creator within by freely experimenting with her approach to this dynamic art. Blending black Chinese ink with the three primary watercolors on Ma (mulberry paper) creates awesome images unique to the artist’s spirit of the moment.
On the First Day, Ming will explain and demonstrate the unique features of ink with watercolor, using the materials, the mixing of Asian ink and primary watercolors, and random and controlled pouring. Students will experience splashing ink on Mulberry paper. She will also show the other styles of splash ink, like marbling, crinkling, and dripping. The poured paper will dry overnight.
The Second day will continue the hands-on learning experience. The morning will be dedicated to more pouring, allowing students to explore this dynamic art form further. Once the poured sheet has dried, everyone will separate the sheets and observe the resulting abstract, learning how to interpret and ‘listen’ to the color.
On the Third Day, Ming will guide students through the process of putting the finishing touches on their paintings. She will explain and demonstrate various techniques, and students will discuss different ways to finish a painting. Special effects, such as salt and alcohol, will be explored, adding a layer of creativity to the artwork. Students will finish their paintings in this inspirational setting. Ming will assist each student, giving them ideas and helping them finish their paintings.
On the Fourth Day, everyone will try to complete their paintings in the morning. In the afternoon, all paintings will be displayed, followed by a group view and critique. Ming will give suggestions on how to improve your paintings.
Ming Franz specializes in splash color painting, which combines Asian ink with primary watercolors and acrylics. She received her basic art training in Taiwan and has continued her art in the United States.
She teaches workshops and classes in New Mexico, California, Texas, Kansas, Illinois, Washington, DC, Seattle, WA., and Taiwan. She has also led workshops and art tours to Italy, France, Japan, and Taiwan.
She was awarded the Grand Prize by International Artist Magazine, the Shibuyi Award winner by the Sumi-e Society of America, the Creative Award by the Pampered Society of Art, and the People’s Choice Award by Fuller Lodge Art Center.
Franz is the author of Splash Ink with Watercolor and has had her work published in Acrylic Illustration, American Art Collector, International Artist Magazine, Southwest Art Magazine, North Light Book Series Splash 9, 10, 13, and 14, Studio Visit Magazine, Albuquerque Journal, and Asian World Journal.
Franz is a Signature Member of the New Mexico Watercolor Society, a certified golden paint and Silver Brush Artist, and an Educator.
You may explore her art, accolades, and education further at: mingfranzstudio.com
07/22/2025 – 07/25/2025