5 Online Courses for Learning How to Illustrate with India Ink

Discover how to draw and paint using this centuries-old technique with five Domestika experts

India ink, also called Chinese ink, has been an essential material used in calligraphy and art in China, Japan, and Korea for centuries. According to experts, the oldest remains to be discovered are oracle bones used in divination rituals. Thousands of years ago, diviners would paint questions onto animal bones before tossing them into a fire, interpreting the patterns of the cracks, and writing a prognostication. Even back then, India ink consisted of more or less the same mixture that it is today: water and soot.

From politics to the art world

It is thanks to the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, that India ink began to be used for writing and art. After conquering several kingdoms, Qin Shi Huang set out to create a unified Chinese empire using a single set of Chinese characters. Writing with visual symbols served not only to unify the population but was also a way for Qin Shi Huang's hundreds of mandarins (civil servants) to organize the lands under his rule: thousands of bureaucratic texts were written in India ink.

Over the years, the mandarins began cultivating arts and literature, and as a result, produced some of the first landscapes painted in India ink. This technique perfectly captured the jet blacks and bright whites associated with Sumi-e art. These monochromatic depictions of mountains, rivers, clouds, and faint horizons were also characterized by their absence of people.

Now that you know a little more about the history of India ink, be sure to check out these five online courses on how to use it to create wonderful illustrations. If you would like to discover more information about each course, click on the titles in red.

Introduction to Illustration with India Ink, a course by Hilda Palafox

According to Mexican artist and designer Hilda Palafox, better known as Poni, India ink is an ideal medium for exploring two of her favorite themes: nature and femininity. Having worked for brands such as Nike, Vans, Google, and Red Bull, Poni is the perfect guide for this introductory course.

You will learn about the different types of paper and which inks you can work with. You will then carry out exercises in creating gradients and depth. Before the end of the course, Poni will give you tips on how to digitize your piece and add finishing touches in Photoshop.

Introduction to Portraits with India Ink and Nibs, a course by José Rosero

While past artists have focused on depicting serene landscapes and elements of nature, why not explore other, more contemporary styles and themes?

If you are looking to experiment with India ink and create illustrations with a modern twist that tell stories, sign up for this course taught by Colombian artist, José Rosero. He will teach you the basics, showing you how to create a sketch by simplifying a face using geometric shapes. Afterward, you will work on capturing light and shadows in pencil, which you will later ink using an Indian ink pen.

Introduction to Illustration of Characters with Gouache and India Ink, a course by Andonella

If you were under the impression that India ink can only be used to create illustrations in black and white, you ought to take a look at Andonella’s vibrant color palettes. Based in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Andonella has a unique style that mixes elements that are both adorable and grotesque.

In this online course, Andonella will show you how to use India ink and gouache to create illustrations in which the black ink emphasizes the solid colors of the gouache. To achieve this, you will need to create a mood board and do some practice exercises that will help you achieve controlled and fluid strokes.

Creation of Autobiographical Graphic Novels, a course by Marcela Trujilo Espinoza

Applying ink to paper is usually the very last step in the creative processes behind the most impressive designs and illustrations, which will quickly become apparent in this course taught by Marcela Trujillo Espinoza. Marcela is a Chilean artist who has published seven graphic novels that stand out for the intimate and personal tone conveyed by her texts and illustrations.

After explaining more about herself and her influences, Marcela will help you create your first autobiographical comic book through a series of creative and self-reflective exercises. First, you will decide whether your project aims to be therapeutic, record your memories, or serve as a diary. Then, you will discover how best to turn those memories and anecdotes into a coherent story. Finally, you will write your script, create sketches in pencil, and ink them with India ink.

India Ink Illustration with Japanese Influence, a course by Mika Takahashi

While it is said that it was invented in imperial China (although some say it originated in India), India ink was also adopted by Japan, where Buddhist monks and scholars began to use it to paint beautiful scenes. It also became an essential material for traditional Japanese calligraphy, known as shodō.

In this course, award-winning artist Mika Takahashi will teach you how to apply India ink to your illustrations and create a look inspired by shodō and Sumi-e. You will begin by practicing basic strokes to get to grips with the technique. Next, you will move on to producing more complex drawings, rich in contrasts and which play with light.

If you would like to try out other versatile mediums like India ink such as gouache, watercolor, or graphite, sign up for these Domestika courses on India ink. You will not only receive expert tips and advice for improving your skills with a pen and brush but also learn to tackle creative block or create delicious food-themed illustrations.

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