Centre for Asia-Pacific Initiatives

CAPI would like to thank everyone who joined us for our Annual Graduate Student Symposium on March 5th, 2026.

The event brought together graduate students conducting Asia-related research from across disciplines to share their work, exchange ideas, and engage in thoughtful discussion. Throughout the day, presenters delivered engaging talks on a wide range of topics connected to Asia. Each presentation was followed by Q&A sessions that provided thoughtful feedback, and new perspectives. The symposium created a space for students to refine their research, connect with peers and faculty, and strengthen academic networks.

We are grateful to all of the graduate student presenters for sharing their work and contributing to such a rich and inspiring dialogue. Thank you as well to the faculty members who chaired and facilitated the sessions. Events like the Graduate Student Symposium highlight the importance of creating spaces where emerging scholars can share ideas, receive constructive feedback, and build connections that support future research and collaboration.

We look forward to continuing to support graduate student research and welcoming new participants at next year’s symposium.

Photos by Sanikka Gupta

The Centre for Asia-Pacific Initiatives invites you to Sumi e: Ink, Water, and Brush in Harmony, a guided introduction to the traditional Japanese art of ink painting. This workshop offers participants an opportunity to explore balance, movement, and expression through brush and ink in a calm and welcoming environment. No prior experience is required.

Sumi-e 墨絵 (Japanese brush painting) uses the many shades from black ink and water on rice paper to create contrast and texture. An important element of sumi-e is the meditative nature of the practice and the equal importance of what is painted and what is not. Artist Michael Abe will demonstrate basic techniques and strokes and give the audience a chance to try their hand at painting. Michael began painting in 1988 while living in Japan. His annual Nenga jo 年賀状 (Japanese New Year’s cards) have depicted the animals of the zodiac since 1999.

2026 is the Year of the Horse.
Image - Sumi-e painting by Michael Abe

The session will take place on Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm in CAPI Boardroom, FRA
A145, Fraser Building, Diana Priestly Law Library, UVic.

We look forward to welcoming you to this informative and hands-on creative session!
https://events.uvic.ca/capi/event/104480-sumi-e-ink-water-and-brush-in-harmony

Coming up this Friday - The CAPI Asia Forum. If you registered, we are looking forward to seeing you!