This two-day creative course investigates the teachings and practices explored in our Buddhism exhibition and considers how these might translate into our viewing, making and understanding of art. Combining ‘slow’ looking, drawing and reflective exercises, this masterclass offers meditative approaches to help engage more deeply and meaningfully with art. Over the course of the weekend, our tutors share strategies for improving focus and attention, to cultivate a sense of enjoyment and appreciation of an artwork and the experience of being fully present with it.
Through short guided exercises, explore the benefits of meditation in preparing for looking at art with openness and curiosity, and practise mindful pauses to bring attention back when the mind wanders into judgemental thoughts. Experiment with the materials of drawing and playful mark-making as a meditative practice, including observational drawing to enhance awareness of the act of looking. Mindfulness is a key element of Buddhist practice, and is now widely applied in secular contexts to improve wellbeing. This weekend aims to show it can also be of great benefit in the production and contemplation of art.
Buddhism: Art and Mindfulness
