Sumi-e Artists of Canada
Sumi-e Artists of Canada is an organization of amateur and professional sumi-e artists.
Since formation in 1984, Sumi-e Artists of Canada has been dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of sumi-e and the artists that practice this poetic art form in Canada. We are proud of our accomplishments, including annual exhibitions at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre in Toronto, and many years of workshops that gave artists opportunities to learn and share their work and philosophies.
After 42 years, the Executive of Sumi-e Artists of Canada has made the difficult decision to dissolve the organization, effective March 31, 2026. Although SAC is no longer sustainable in its current structure, we know that the impact of our art and shared creativity will endure.
SAC would like to thank our membership, volunteers and supporters for their dedication and inspiration over the past 45 years.
With a commitment to sharing resources, our website will remain online indefinitely, and will be updated periodically with content of interest to a national and international audience.
If you would like to contribute to our site, please send related news or information using our contact page.
Untitled by Ruth Yamada
About sumi-e
East Asian brush painting originated in China centuries ago as part of the meditative practice of Buddhist monks. It spread to Japan where it became known as sumi-e.
In Japanese, “sumi” means ink and “e” means painting. Sumi-e art expresses the essence of a subject in keeping with Japanese Zen philosophy.
It has been said that to paint in this art form is to paint from the soul – to paint the essence of the subject – painting more of what the artist feels about their subject than the subject itself.
Sumi-e is a contemplative art that is studied throughout your life. Even masters of sumi-e admit there’s always more to learn.