If you’re someone who loves watercolor painting, enjoys creative expression, and values a personal touch in art, then etegami might be a delightful new adventure for you. Etegami, which means “picture letter” in Japanese, is an accessible and heartfelt art form that combines simple watercolor illustrations with thoughtful words. This art style is perfect for those looking to explore a unique blend of creativity and communication, especially in an age where handwritten messages carry a nostalgic and intimate charm.
What is Etegami?
Etegami is a traditional Japanese art form that originated from the desire to send heartfelt, handmade postcards to friends and loved ones. At its core, etegami involves creating small, postcard-sized watercolor paintings accompanied by a brief message or poem. The art is usually simple and intentionally imperfect, embracing the beauty of flaws and the warmth of personal expression. Unlike highly technical forms of watercolor painting, etegami is meant to be approachable—anyone can create etegami, regardless of their artistic skill level.
The typical subjects of etegami are everyday objects, plants, or foods—things that are familiar, unpretentious, and close to the heart. The paintings are often bordered with a short, hand-lettered message that reflects the artist’s thoughts or feelings. It’s not about creating a masterpiece; it’s about capturing a moment, an emotion, or a wish in a way that resonates personally.
Why Etegami Appeals to Older Watercolor Enthusiasts
For many older watercolor enthusiasts, etegami offers a refreshing shift from the pressure of perfection often found in traditional art classes or competitions. Etegami’s philosophy is grounded in the concept of “wabi-sabi,” which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the charm of the handmade. This makes it particularly appealing to those who may feel that their artistic skills are “rusty” or who simply want to enjoy the process of painting without the stress of technical precision.
Furthermore, etegami provides a meaningful way to connect with others. In our digital age, receiving a handmade card feels like a rare and precious gift. Sending an etegami postcard can brighten someone’s day, offering a tangible reminder that they are thought of and cherished. For many older artists, this act of giving through art can be profoundly fulfilling, transforming painting from a solitary activity into a shared experience.
Getting Started with Etegami
One of the best things about etegami is that you don’t need a lot of supplies to start. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Watercolor Postcards: These are typically small, about 4 x 6 inches, and made of absorbent paper. If you can’t find specialized etegami paper, regular watercolor paper works well too. You can of course cut larger pieces of paper down to postcard size.
- Watercolor Paints: Any watercolor set will do. Etegami often uses muted, natural colors, but you’re free to experiment with any palette that speaks to you.
- Brushes: A small round brush, typically size 4 or 6, is sufficient for creating the loose, simple shapes that characterise etegami. A traditional sumi brush works best, but a regular watercolor brush, a watercolor brush pen or a brush marker can also suffice.
- Black Ink or Sumi Ink: This is used for outlining your illustrations and adding your message.
- A Sense of Playfulness: Perhaps the most important “tool” is a willingness to let go of perfection and enjoy the flow of your brush.
Begin by choosing a simple subject, like a seasonal fruit, a favorite flower, or a beloved object. Sketch the basic shapes lightly with a pencil if you wish, then outline with black ink, trying to hold the brush loosely and perpendicular to the paper. Next, add watercolor in loose, gentle strokes, allowing the colors to blend naturally. Once your painting is dry, add a short message—something uplifting, humorous, or reflective. It could be a proverb, a quote, or a personal note. Don’t worry about your handwriting; etegami is all about personal touch and authenticity.
Embracing the Etegami Spirit
The true joy of etegami lies in its spontaneity and connection. This art form encourages you to be present, to appreciate the small details of everyday life, and to communicate in a way that is uniquely your own. It’s about more than painting—it’s about sharing a piece of your heart.
For older artists, etegami can be a gentle reminder that creativity knows no age. It’s a celebration of the here and now, expressed in a splash of watercolor and a few heartfelt words. So why not give etegami a try? Gather your brushes, let go of expectations, and start sending your beautiful “picture letters” to friends, family, or even to yourself. In each stroke and each word, you’ll find the joy of connection—both with your art and with those who receive it.
Etegami is not just an art form; it’s a lovely, personal way to celebrate life’s simple pleasures and to keep your creativity flowing, one postcard at a time.
Watch me explore Etegami for the first time
In this video I share my first impressions of etegami, and my very first attempts at this wonderfully liberating art form. I hope you will enjoy watching and following along, and creating your own “picture letters” from the heart!
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