The paper aims to explore the application of ink elements of Chinese traditional painting in contemporary graphic design, expand the form, deepen the connotation of graphic design works, and gain more recognition from Chinese. Firstly, the characteristics of ink and wash elements were summarized, and its value and significance for contemporary graphic design were analyzed. Then, the application in poster, advertisement, logo and other graphic design is discussed from the aspects of ink form, ink implication and ink color. Ink and wash is a unique visual element in Chinese traditional painting, which represents the unique aesthetic interest, cultural pursuit and spiritual outlook of the Chinese nation. It can provide inspiration and reference for contemporary graphic design in terms of materials, concepts and techniques. While improving the quality of creation, it can highlight the distinctive national style and open up a new path for the contemporary inheritance of traditional culture channels.