![]() ![]() ![]() A similar economy enlivens other works, such as Shoki Sleeping, which captures a tub-bellied folk deity, boots on, snoozing. In the painting Blind Men Crossing a Bridge, the tiniest of brush strokes manages to conjure up halting steps and uncertain balance in a progression along a wooden bridge - the latter summoned up in one broad, bold, horizontal stroke. Hakuin's images go beyond words and might also bring about a sudden moment of realization for the viewer - perhaps not enlightenment, but some insight or inspiration made more accessible through Hakuin's approachable, familiar and identifiable themes.Īmong the most delightful paintings on view are those that depict mundane objects and activities, sometimes in the guise of myths and folk tales, whether it be a monkey on a tree limb, two preening foxes dancing, or a Buddhist pilgrim perched on the back of another to write on a high wall. Enlightenment in the Rinzai sect of Zen can occur suddenly. The art does not have to be perfect, as in professional art, it has to speak to you, to convey Hakuin's teachings and Zen mind in a direct way.Īlthough there are many texts, Zen traditionally doesn't rely on words, instead it relies on a transmission of Zen mind directly from master to disciple. The images do not represent formal religious texts or doctrine, but visual sermons that viewers can ponder at their own leisure. The boldness, untrammeled freedom, and playfulness are extensions of his Zen mind and training, and provide a means of reaching out to people. ![]() The technique and artistic style of his painting and calligraphy is largely self-taught, as brushwork is not a part of formal monastic training, but part of his cumulative experience. Hakuin's images are concrete reminders of this. Everyone has Buddha nature, and it can be cultivated in all walks of life. This reminds lay practitioners that Zen is not only about monastic training, but can also be practiced in everyday life. Zen can be taught using familiar everyday themes and experiences it does not rely only on traditional religious figures or stories. Hakuin's art is an expression of his Zen mind - his monastic training, his Zen experience, and his enlightened state." The subjects include religious subjects (portraits of Zen patriarchs and teachers) and familiar cultural references (poets, folk figures, animals), reflecting experiences that he in turn uses to express Zen teachings to a wider audience. ![]()
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