Shop Thrifty Treasures: Jo-An Thomas Offers One-of-a Kind Merchandise and Chinese Brush Painting Classes
If you are looking for a “statement” piece of jewelry or a unique gift for yourself or others, be sure to check out the offerings on www.ShopThriftyTreasures.com. Founder, artist, and entrepreneur Jo-An Thomas sources her one-of-a-kind items from all over the world and prices them reasonably. Ranging from antiques to vintage to handcrafted artwork, they will cause friends and family to ask: “Where did you get that beautiful piece?” If you are looking for more Asian-inspired products, check out Thomas’ other site, www.AsianHomeProduct.com.
On both sites you will also see Thomas’ beautiful Chinese brush paintings. She came to appreciate this ancient art form while traveling in China, where her cousin was consul general. Back home in Massachusetts,, she took Chinese Brush painting classes at the Cohasset Art Center, where she later brought in master painters from China and the United States to teach workshops. Today, Thomas is a member of the Sumi-e Society of America and the Sarasota chapter.
If you would like to learn how to create your own Chinese Brush painting, you can sign up for classes at the Morean Arts Center. All supplies are provided for workshops. Classes begin with meditating on how you will paint the essence of your subject, rather than its realistic detail. Using the “Four Treasures” of a special brush, ink stick, ink stone and rice paper, you will use your whole body to create a unique work of art. Whether you are a beginner who believes you have no talent in art or a master artist, you will enjoy learning this beautiful art form.
“It is very rewarding to see my students let go of their inhibitions and create art like they were a kid again,” Thomas says. “Even when we paint the same subject, everyone’s art is different because they are letting their true spirit come through.”
Register for Jo-An Thomas’ Chinese Brush Painting classes or one-day workshops at moreanartscenter.org/classes/chinese-brush-painting-with-jo-an-thomas/.
