Ebru Technique – Colour Toy

Water painting originated in Ancient China, where it was considered a secret science of the priests, and later spread all over the world, acquiring different names (Ebre – mould paper in Ancient China, Abru – water face in Central Asia and many others). Around the 16th century, it spread to what is now Turkey, where it acquired the name Ebru. In present-day Turkey, it has developed to such an extent that it is known as Traditional Turkish Art and is protected by UNESCO as a cultural heritage.

Aim (skills to be developed)

• Emotional outpouring, developing self-confidence and motivation,
• developing hand movements,
• developing attention,
• unleashing creativity,
• developing communication,
• negotiation,
• learning to tolerate uncertainty.

The therapeutic side is also becoming very important, helping children to develop their emotional intelligence, to vent their emotions and to learn to manage them. It is often observed that after painting, children become happier. For children with special needs, the ebru technique allows them to vent their emotions, enjoy a great result and develop self-confidence. Water painting is not an indifferent art because of its easy results, fast changing process, unusual play of colours and shapes and unexpectedness.

In addition to its meditative effect, this technique has a strong therapeutic influence: it develops coordination, concentration and retention of attention. To achieve the desired result, it is necessary to follow the rules of drawing, concentrate on your inner world, pick up a brush or a stick, relax and immerse yourself in the world of colours and shapes. These qualities make the Ebru technique particularly suitable for children with autism spectrum disorder.

Tools: original, natural, human- and nature-friendly, plant-based paints, special brushes, sticks, water combs, special water thickened with a mixture of seaweed and aquatic plants are used.