The Japanese Buddhist Art of Today: Zen Art
This is a view of present day Zen art based on the works of a few prevalent Japanese Zen artists. From traditional decorative Buddhist art to an art form that is practically a religion in itself, Zen art has progressed in immense steps since its beginnings. The Zen artist has a tremdous amount of freedom, not only in medium, but also in topic. Although most Zen art focuses on nature, the art is not limited to any specific mediums. The introduction of nature, irregular patterns and tones, and unpredictable topics has made Zen art one of the most easily identified and revered existing art forms.
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This calligrapher was born in Hamamatsu, Japan, and began the customary training in calligraphy at a young age. His writing illustrates a style never seen before in Japanese calligraphy. He was elected a member of the revered Art and Calligraphy Association of Japan in 1973, and as Kanayama progressed in art, he received many more awards and prizes for exhibitions, such as the prestigious Nitten Prize or Japan Exhibition of Arts prize. After leaving 'Chuohshodan', the Japanese field of calligraphy, Doshu started to work in other areas. His pieces maintain a clearly Japanese flavor. Some of his mediums are rice paper, hanging scrolls, screens, kimonos, obi belts, and even tatami mats. Doshu Kanayama, maintiains that his inspiration comes from the warmth of life, and especially from the energy of watching and being around children. At 54 years of age, this calligrapher hopes only to convey his inspirations to the world through his artworks.
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John Daido Loori found his interest in photography as a child, and has continued this work throughout his life. As a professional photographer he organized and directed two galleries, and also conducted photography workshops throughout the United States. He has been exhibited in over 30 one-person shows and 50 group shows, and has also lectured extensively on photography and the creative process. His photography has also been published in books, magazines and leading photography journals such as Aperture and Time-Life Photography.John Daido Loori is the Abbot and spiritual leader of Zen Mountain Monastery in the Catskill Mountains of New York. Here, his background as a scientist, artist, and naturalist are intermingled with his spiritual teachings. Loori maintains a particular interest in using artistic expression in the communication of the Buddhadharma in maintaining the spirit of the ancient Zen Masters.
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Kazuaki Tanahashi is an artist and writer trained in Japan and active in both Japan and the United States. He is the pioneer of the genre of "one stroke painting" as well as the creator of multi-color Ensos (Zen circles) - which can be seen in the blow images. In terms of calligraphy, Tanahashi strives to create large single-ideograph pieces and his brushwork has been shown in solo-exhibitions in galleries, museums, and univerities worldwide. (He has taught brush workshops at Zen Mountain Monastery periodically since 1986 alongside John Daido Loori)As a member of World Academy of Art and Science, Kazuaki Tanahashi has publications that including: "Brush Mind" "Miracles of the Moment, Penetrating Laughter: Hakuin's Zen and Art and Enlightment Unfolds."
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