Contemplative Art -3 Aug 2013

CONTEMPLATIVE ART -3 Aug 2013

Contemplative Art practice can affects us internally, through our thoughts and emotions, as well as externally, through the creation of object and images that can serve as sources of inspiration and to practice present moment awareness.

In the act of sitting, looking, and being with our artwork we are slowing down, becoming more present, and opening our minds and hearts to truly feel. We feel what is in the present. When art really resonates with us inside it creates an opening both in and out. This opening can be reflective, inspiring, uplifting, calming, healing and a place of refuge.

Our first successful Contemplative Art Class. Each participants created impressive art work. After the class, some were inspired and took interested in the Dhammapada.

Even though these participants are all beginners in the art of mix media technique the end results were impressive.

Contemplative Art practice can affects us internally, through our thoughts and emotions, as well as externally, through the creation of object and images that can serve as sources of inspiration and to practice present moment awareness.

All participants were encourage to experiment with texture, patterns and colors

Focus in their work

Teamwork, sharing and fun during the process

Verse 1. 'The Mind from the Dhammapada

Explanation: All that we experience begins with thought. Our words and deeds spring from thought. If we speak or act with evil thoughts, unpleasant circumstances and experiences inevitably result. Wherever we go, we create bad circumstances because we carry bad thoughts. This is very much like the wheel of a cart following the hoofs of the ox yoked to the cart. The cart-wheel, along with the heavy load of the cart, keeps following the draught oxen. The animal is bound to this heavy load and cannot leave it.

Inspired with interest one of the participant started reading the Dhammapada.

All delighted with their art pieces

" My key word for this is 'CALM'. i never thought of I be able to do this. I told myself to calm down and do my best when I start, but it is like I was guided and given inspiration of this. I was also guided by Catherine all the way and the final result was out of my expectation". said Kong Geok Kim

The picture description is Buddha before reaching enlightenment the defilement is still there, the defilement are reflected on the dark patches on the background of the canvas. Eventually goodness triumphed over evilness as shown by the white colour patches. To conclude it is within each and everyone of us the 

" I really enjoyed the Contemplative Art session. It is such a beautiful way to learn dhammapada. The few hours we spent contemplating was so calm and blissful". said Poh Gee

With joy
Catherine Lai