Zenmi – A Taste of Zen: Paintings, Calligraphy, and Ceramics

October 18, 2011 – January 22, 2012

From the Riva Lee Asbell Collection

Zen is a form of Buddhism known for its reliance on personal introspection as a means of achieving enlightenment. Zen espouses a non-rational approach to understanding truth and has a tendency to challenge spiritual complacency and the usual perception of reality. Zenga, the subject of this exhibition, is the art of Zen. The exhibition features over 100 works of art including paintings and calligraphy mounted as hanging scrolls, inscribed ceramics used in the tea ceremony, and other objects associated with the often quirky practice of Zen. The exhibition examines the artistic work of 25 influential Zen leaders of the 20th century who served as abbots to leading Zen monasteries in Japan. Their art is a form of teaching intended to aid students of Zen in breaking the bonds of dualistic and logical thinking. The Zen masters, or roshi, who created these works acted true to their calling as teachers and guides, taking up the brush late in life only after accumulating the experiences and wisdom of a lifetime. The result is a tradition of visual expression with tremendous spirit, charm, and visual impact, producing a body of art unlike that of any other world religion.