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The Painters Sutra
by Elden Rowland
6x9.5
Soft Cover, 56 Pages
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In 1972, at 57 years of age, Elden Rowland hand-lettered and self-published his book, The Painter's Sutra. This was the culmination of his 27 years as an artist, and a combination of the three central aspects of his life: his interest in all things Oriental, his love of painting, and his passion for teaching.
There are a limited number of the original 1,000 copies of The Painter's Sutra still remaining and, in keeping with his habits of generosity, and his sincere desire to share, these copies are being offered on this website without cost to anyone making a request on the attached form. With it's sutra form of questions and answers (based on ancient Buddhist writings ) the book is surely unique, possibly esoteric.
Definitely not a "how-to" book, The Painter's Sutra sets forth Elden's belief that painting is an intuitive process, combined with a thorough knowledge of sound principles of color and composition, no matter what the technique. In his career, Elden's work covered a wide range of explorations, all based on this combination of a philosophy of painting and an adherence to well-learned rules of craftsmanship.
One of Elden's former students writes:
"Reflections and memories as a student of Elden Rowland, noted artist, watercolorist and Oriental brush painter: My introduction was through his demonstrations at the Hilton Leech Studio, where he taught for many years. My first workshop, Oriental Ways with Watercolor, was in the spring of 1979. It intrigued me. I couldn't wait and I wasn't disappointed!
"That first morning, Elden demonstrated bamboo, explaining the structure, characteristics, and how it grew. After the demonstration, we proceeded to our places to produce our own version.
"He was kind and gentle critiquing each student's work. My heart was beating fast, my turn. He looked at my work, walked outside and broke off a piece of bamboo. Returning, he laid it on my paper, placed his gentle hand on my shoulder and moved to the next student never saying a word.
"A lesson in observation...Look...See...Study! My love of nature has only increased over the last twenty or more years. Looking and learning to SEE has made me a better painter. I have given many demonstrations in watercolor and sumi-e' painting, but never without the memory of Elden Rowland's gift to me!"
--Bonnie C. Adams, Watercolorist, Sumi-e' Painter, Sapphire, North Carolina, January 8, 2001
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