Chinese Landscape Painting for Beginners
Discover the rich tradition of Chinese landscape painting (Shan Shui – Mountain & Water) in this inspiring beginner-friendly course in Sydney. Rooted in the Song Dynasty, classical Chinese painting is more than a representation of nature—it is a spiritual and philosophical expression of harmony between humanity and the natural world.
Rather than copying nature’s physical form, you will learn to interpret landscapes as a fusion of personal temperament and universal essence. Through expressive water-ink techniques, you’ll explore brush control, composition, symbolism, and the metaphysical ideas that underpin this timeless art form.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the principal aesthetic theories and major categories of Chinese painting
- Develop foundational skills in water ink painting and pigment application
- Interpret symbolic meaning in traditional landscape compositions
Course Content
- Brush movement, ink control, and rock/mountain techniques
- Trees, plants, colour usage, and perspective in landscapes
- Complete a small-scale landscape painting with signature and seal
Schedule & Pricing
- 6 August 2026 – 10 September 2026
- Thursdays, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
- Course fee: $449
Additional Information
- Closed-in shoes required
- Wear old clothes or bring an apron
- Long hair must be tied back
Details
You will learn
- Core principles of Chinese landscape aesthetics
- Water ink brush techniques and pigment control
- Symbolism and composition in Shan Shui painting
You will get
- Expert guidance from an experienced instructor
- Use of brushes, ink and Chinese paper in class
- Completed small-scale landscape artwork
Appropriate for
Beginners; open to all adults interested in Chinese painting (taught in English and Chinese).
Preparation
What to bring
- Medium and small line brushes (brown hair) if preferred
- Chinese paper and Chinese ink (optional)
- Apron or old clothes for painting
What to wear
Closed-in shoes; wear old clothes or bring an apron
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Chinese Landscape Painting for Beginners
Book soon! 4 people viewed this class.
Be the first to know when this class has new dates! Add your email to the waitlist.