As a team leader in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, I’m always on the lookout for ways to strengthen team bonds, encourage collaboration, and foster a sense of creativity in the workplace. After trying a few traditional team-building activities, I wanted something that would stand out, offer a more mindful experience, and give my team a chance to unwind and explore their creative side. That’s when I came across Suminagashi Ink Art and their corporate team-building workshops.
At first, the idea of an art-based team-building event seemed like an unusual choice. But after learning more about Suminagashi, the Japanese art of ink marbling, I realized it could be the perfect fit. The art form’s gentle, meditative process seemed like an ideal way to allow our team to tap into creativity, slow down, and work together in a relaxed, non-competitive environment. So, we decided to give it a try.
We arranged a half-day team-building workshop with Suminagashi Ink Art, and from the moment we arrived, we were welcomed into a peaceful and creative space. The atmosphere was calm and inviting, which immediately helped set the tone for the day. The instructors were warm, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable, and they made sure to explain the history and technique of Suminagashi in a way that was engaging and easy to understand.
The best part? The entire team, from the most creatively inclined to those who had never picked up a paintbrush, was encouraged to embrace the process and experiment. The workshop wasn’t about making perfect art—it was about letting go, having fun, and working together as a group. We all took turns marbling ink on water, creating swirling patterns and designs that we would later transfer onto paper. The process was calming and hypnotic, allowing everyone to truly be in the moment.
There was something incredibly powerful about the experience. We weren’t just making art; we were connecting on a deeper level, learning how to communicate and collaborate in a whole new way. As we worked together on our individual pieces, we shared tips, collaborated on design ideas, and supported each other as we discovered our unique artistic voices.
One of the most surprising aspects of the workshop was how much it helped us break down barriers. In the midst of our creative process, we weren’t colleagues with job titles or deadlines—we were a group of people simply enjoying the act of creating together. The shared experience of experimenting with ink, learning a new skill, and watching the marbled designs emerge from the water fostered an incredible sense of camaraderie and trust.
At the end of the session, everyone was amazed by what we had created. Each piece of artwork was completely unique, just like our team. Some of us embraced bold, bright patterns, while others chose more subtle, serene designs. Regardless of the approach, everyone walked away with a beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece of art—and a deeper sense of connection with one another.
What I loved about the experience was that it didn’t just leave us with memorable artwork—it left us with a newfound sense of teamwork and creativity that carried over into our work. We learned how to trust each other’s strengths, offer constructive feedback, and celebrate our individual contributions to the collective whole.
Overall, the Suminagashi Ink Art team-building workshop exceeded my expectations in every way. It was a perfect balance of creativity, mindfulness, and fun, and it allowed our team to bond in a way that traditional team-building activities simply couldn’t. If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful way to strengthen your team, I highly recommend this experience. It’s not just about creating art—it’s about creating memories, building relationships, and tapping into the power of creativity as a team.
Thank you, Suminagashi Ink Art, for providing our team with such a valuable and enriching experience. We’ll definitely be back for more!