We propose a novel ''e-brush'' for calligraphy and painting, which meets all the criteria for a good e-brush. We use only four attributes to capture the essential features of the brush, and a suitably powerful modeling metaphor for its behavior. The e-brushÕs geometry, dynamic motions, and pigment changes are all dealt with in a single model. A single model simplifies the synchronization between the various system modules, thus giving rise to a more stable system, and lower costs. By a careful tradeoff between the complexity of the model and computation efficiency, more elaborate simulation of the e-brushÕs deformation and its recovery for interactive painterly rendering is made possible. We also propose a novel paper-ink model to complement the brushÕs model, and a machine intelligence module to empower the user to easily create beautiful calligraphy and painting. Despite the complexity of the modeling behind the scene, the high-level user interface has a simplistic and friendly design. The final results created by our e-brush can rival the real artwork.