Mindfully Marbling

Marbling ink patterns in a collage. — `Zoomed in patterns highlight the power of a close up.`

I am a big reader. Storytelling, especially. From the moment I could read, very much like Matilda, books took me into a fantasy world of wonder and magical thinking, and they still do today. They keep my imagination ‘alive’ metaphorically, visually, and poetically. I remember being fascinated by the end papers in some of the older books - not realising the process behind it, nor the history of its global expansion and trade secrecy. I fell in love with the patterns, the colour combinations, and that the more I observed, the more I saw.

A bit of history: “The origin and development of marbling was practiced in Japan as early as the 12th century. The first forms of Japanese marbling were called Suminagashi, or ‘ink floating’. Delicate, swirled patterns were produced on paper when colors of ink were floated on the surface of the water. Master marblers trained apprentices in the various techniques, being careful not to share secret formulas and techniques.” SOURCE

For a long time, this was a trade secret. If you want to know more about the cut-throat world of nineteenth century book production, read this V&A article.

I often use the process to shake off a block, or to regulate my nervous system. And, due to the accessibility and cost-effective set-up (you literally need inks, paper, a tray and water + some gloves) it’s so accessible for all.

PATTERNITY reintroduced me to it in 2016, they describe it blissfully:

“A simple marbling ink and water techniques to allow people from all backgrounds to reconnect with their creativity and enjoy an experience of mindfulness and energised focus. Bringing our attention fully, and curiously to the present moment, we open a space for participants to get hands-on – and mucky! Together, in a supportive environment, we create artworks to take away and treasure.”