HyeSeong Sunim, the abbot of Baklimsa (Catskill Zendo, NY), has been deeply involved in the arts from a young age. He studied calligraphy and has exhibited his Seon paintings multiple times. His expertise extends into the realms of art and tea culture, viewing them as natural extensions of Seon practice. This holistic approach blends traditional artistic disciplines with spiritual practice, enriching both his personal mastery and his teachings.
Below is a short video featuring him explaining about Seon, art, and its application in daily life. He describes Seon as an approach to living well and achieving excellence in various aspects of life. He highlights that Seon involves meditation and mindfulness, helping individuals excel in a competitive society. He also emphasizes the importance of finding a unifying theme or purpose through meditation, which he equates with discovering one’s best self or Seon.
What is Zen Calligraphy?
Below is the introduction of “Master Gae San HyeSeong Zen Calligraphy Exhibition Catalog”, from 2008.
Calligraphy is a formative art based on writing. It includes not only writing that is beautiful, but phrases that are novel and interesting. True creativity is not the product of a conscious effort but rather the phenomenon of life itself. True creation must arise from no-mind, a state beyond thought, emotions and expectations. Work that is produced through conscious effort is ultimately devoid of life.
Zen calligraphy in particular must spring from true thought. It is full concentration that is devoid of thoughts and ideas. These toughts distract the mind.
Zen calligraphy differs from other calligraphic desciplines as it is focused on the realization of no-mind. It is the expression of Zen through a brush, whether the result is a single stroke, a Zen circle, dharma picture or an ink painting.
Calligraphy today through Master Gae San HyeSeong resonates with the energy of no-mind achieved through complete concentration.
Master Gae San HyeSeong believes art works encourages the mind towards enlightenment. The Master believes that each one of us should strive for a higher level of spirituality through meditation and contemplation.
