When Newtown resident Mary-Barrett Anders moved to Korea for a year, she decided to absorb the culture and become a part of the country, rather than be an observer.

On Sunday, December 29, from 2 pm to 4 pm, Ms Anders will be sharing that experience through a workshop hosted by HealingNewtown for The Arts. She will be presenting an introductory workshop, through her Parem Hwah Asian Brushwork company, in the basic techniques of Chinese and Korean style brushwork painting.

This is an introductory workshop in the basic techniques of Chinese and Korean style brushwork painting. Participants will learn to paint the four classic plants: bamboo, orchid, cherry blossom and chrysanthemum. The ancient techniques help to focus the mind, calm the spirit and increase self-confidence.

Noting that “Parem” means hope, Ms Anders says her work makes her feel “healthy and at peace.”  In Korea, this discipline is a meditative art and is taught to middle school children. The painting is done on rice paper and the brushes are made from the fur on a wolf’s underbelly.

The workshop will be at HealingNewtown, which is housed at Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West Street. There is a suggested donation of $5 per person and all materials and supplies will be provided. Partial proceeds from the workshop will benefit HealingNewtown future programs.

The workshop is fine for 9 to 90 years old, says Ms Anders, but participants under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Beginning Thursday, February 6, Ms Anders will lead a four class bi-weekly course at HealingNewtown in Asian Brushwork Painting.  The course is designed for beginners, encouraging family participation and all artists are welcome. Cost of the course is $112.

For information or to register for the workshop and/or the course, visit HealingNewtown.org and then click on Calendar.