The ink in ink painting is divided into five colors, which refer to the changes in ink color. Based on the heaviest ink color, it gradually fades to form different color levels. The interactive use of pen and ink, arranged in various shapes, forms a rich color scale, with various variations in density, lightness, color, and humidity, which is very noteworthy in landscape painting.
Grinding ink with ink blocks should be done slower and thicker. Adjust water as needed during use. Ink is not thick and easy to dry, and its color is gray and not black. Wash the ink residue on the inkstone every time you use it or every few days to avoid leaving any dry or hard ink residue. The remaining ink is called Su ink, which undergoes chemical changes and is then used in the stomach and painting. When it dries, it not only dries up and moves, but also lacks luster. Nowadays, the use of ink blocks is gradually decreasing, and ink is often used instead. The ink color is heavy and dull, and it is often difficult to write with glue. After adding water, it is also easy to melt. It is best to add some water before use and then grind the ink block, because ink is convenient and can be used for paintings that require minimal changes in ink color.