Lisa Ibbetson

Lisa Ibbetson is a Suminagashi artist with over 25 years of experience. She first learnt the technique whilst studying at Glasgow School of Art in the 1990s and has taught workshops across the UK in addition to regular workshops from her home studio in Brighton, exploring the philosophical dimensions of this ancient Japanese practice. Her meditative works have been exhibited in galleries in the UK and she is featured in the upcoming Hudsmith publication highlighting heritage art.

Describe your approach to teaching
My approach balances technical instruction with creating space for intuitive discovery. I guide students to find the sweet spot between skillful intervention and surrendering to the unpredictable nature of water and ink.

What inspires your own work?
I'm inspired by the Taoist principle of effortless action—that creative flow state where intention meets surrender. Each unrepeatable moment on water captures the beautiful tension between control and chance.