Art and Culture Program
| One of the most vibrant, innovative aspects of Deer Park has been the exploration of the relationship between art and contemplative practice. We have held several highly successful arts retreats, bringing together poets, monks, scholars, filmmakers and translators from all over India and the world. These week long programs encompass presentations and practical workshops in disciplines ranging from Zen poetry and classical Indian music to pottery, calligraphy and ikebana (Japanese contemplative flower arranging). There have been readings of Tamil Buddhist literature and Marathi folk tales, as well as presentations of cinema fromacross Asia. Participants in the arts retreats explore the inextricable connection between creative expression and spiritual transformation, through practical exercises, discussion and sharing. These gatherings have drawn internationally renowned scholars, artists and thinkers such as Vidya Rao, Andrew Schelling, Marlow Brooks, Prabodh Parikh, Dilip Chitre,Jane Carpenter, Eric Zhu and Youchu Lin. Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche played an active role in the first two arts retreats in February/November 2007, teaching for several days at each. Overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants at these gatherings inspired us to offer a third arts retreat in April 2009, focusing on the relationship between art, nature and spiritual practice. In addition, supplementary courses in contemplative arts are part of the ongoing Nalanda Studies curriculum. |
|
 |
|
