Sumi-e is the traditional Japanese art of ink painting, where a subject is captured with simple, expressive brushstrokes. No previous experience is needed. You’ll be guided step by step by an instructor who explains each stroke clearly and helps you get comfortable with the brush, ink, water, and paper.
This month’s subject is bamboo, or take, one of the Four Noble Ones in East Asian ink painting, along with orchid, chrysanthemum, and plum blossom. Bamboo is evergreen and able to bend in the wind without breaking, making it a symbol of resilience and integrity.
In this class, you’ll practice painting bamboo’s jointed stalk with steady, confident strokes, then mark the nodes and finish with clusters of leaves in dark and light ink. The subject is a beautiful way to explore how Sumi-e can express both structure and movement with simple brushwork.
The class is led by Kohfu Furukawa, a New York based visual artist originally from Japan whose work bridges traditional Japanese art and Western art, with years of experience in calligraphy and sumi-e.
All materials, including ink, brushes, and calligraphy paper, are provided. Just bring yourself and enjoy a calm, hands-on introduction to Japanese Sumi-e painting.
The subject changes regularly. Past themes have included cherry blossoms, orchids, chrysanthemums, and the Lucky Cat, so there’s always something new to come back for.
SPECIAL CANCELLATION POLICY FOR THIS CLASS
This class has its own cancellation policy, which applies instead of the general DoBeDoUs policy where the terms differ. Cancellations made at least 72 hours before the class are eligible for a refund of the class price. Processing fees are non-refundable, and cancellations made within 72 hours of the class are not eligible for a refund. Any terms not addressed in this class-specific policy follow the general DoBeDoUs Cancellation Policy in the Cancellation Policy section further down this page. For questions or cancellation requests, please email support@dobedous.com with the class name and your order number, or use the contact form in the footer.
We aim to be fair to both learners and instructors while ensuring artists and studios are paid for their work. This policy helps ensure instructors and studios are compensated for their time and preparation. We encourage learners to review class details carefully before booking and to reach out with any questions in advance.
Some classes have a class-specific cancellation, refund, or credit policy. If applicable, it will be listed in the class description and will apply where it differs from the general policy below. Please review the full class description before booking.
Tickets are refundable if canceled at least 7 days before the event. If you cancel, a cancellation fee equal to the payment processing cost for the transaction, approximately 3% of the booking total, will be deducted from your refund.
If you’re unable to attend, you’re welcome to give your ticket to a friend. Please have them check in using your name.
In the rare case that the event does not meet minimum participation requirements, we’ll contact ticket holders at least 48 hours in advance with the option to reschedule or receive a refund, excluding the nonrefundable payment processing cost.
To learn more or if you have questions, please review our cancellation details. If you need to request a cancellation under a class-specific policy, please email support@dobedous.com with the class name and your order number, or use the contact form in the footer.
East Village, 91 E 3rd Street, New York, NY, 10003 View Direction
A versatile East Village storefront in New York, NY, this first-floor space offers a welcoming setting for hands-on classes.
Since 2011, RESOBOX’s creative practice has been rooted in New York City, where the studio bridges traditional Japanese cultural crafts with modern, vibrant spaces. Through curated workshops in bonsai making, ikebana flower arranging, sushi making, and other Japanese cultural practices, RESOBOX works to make centuries-old master techniques accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences.
Its teaching philosophy centers on cultural immersion and community, turning a spacious, light-filled studio into a welcoming gathering place for shared creative experiences. RESOBOX’s work is grounded in preserving rich heritage while sparking personal inspiration in each participant.
Please arrive about 10 minutes before the class starts so you can settle in comfortably.
After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with directions and any important details for the class.
Class format, materials, and preparation are all outlined in the class description. Most classes are beginner-friendly unless noted otherwise.
All classes are taught by vetted artists and makers who are experienced in both their craft and teaching.
We offer local, artist-led classes that support ongoing creative learning and bring people together through community.
RESOBOX
Japanese culture is not presented here as something distant or fixed. At RESOBOX, it becomes something that can resonate, mix, and evolve in New York. Their classes invite learners into the craft, philosophy, and people behind Japanese traditions while leaving room for each person’s own background and perspective to enter the experience.
RESOBOX makes cultural learning feel approachable without losing its depth. The classes are hands-on, guided, and welcoming, so beginners can participate comfortably even when the technique is new. Whether students are working with bonsai, ikebana, ink painting, tea ceremony, decorative sushi, or another Japanese art form, there is a nice balance between learning a specific skill and enjoying the process of slowing down, observing, and trying something outside of everyday routine.
The studio itself adds to the experience. Located in the East Village, RESOBOX feels like more than a classroom. It is a ground-floor storefront with large windows, natural light, exposed brick walls, and a warm, stylish atmosphere. Flexible table and seating layouts allow the space to shift between workshops, exhibitions, events, and community gatherings. The setting feels active, open, and creative, giving learners a chance to experience Japanese culture in a way that feels grounded in New York City.
If you don’t see what you’re looking for, view our FAQs or contact us.
Gifting
A DoBeDoUs Gift Card is a thoughtful way to give something meaningful to your loved ones. They can use it to join any class that inspires them. Gift cards never expire, have no extra fees, and are delivered instantly by email.
