Artistic Statement
Not unlike an ancient Japanese teamaster, whose abilities and knowledge had to range from the plantation and preparation of tea and food, to garden design, architecture, philosophy, spiritual understanding and practices, pottery, poetry and calligraphy, I would like to propose a concept of artistic engagement that mirrors the understanding of the Way of Tea as a way of life.
Life and art are not separate for me.
The practice of an art-form has the potential to inform and form you, reaching into any aspect of life and living.
What we call artistic practice may serve as facilitator of ethical, ecological and spiritual understanding.
It may be seen as a pathway of coming to knowing, reverence and celebration.
or, in the words of Ian McKellan:
"Practice any art, music, singing, dancing, acting, drawing, painting, sculpture, poetry, fiction, essays, reportage, no matter how well or badly, not to get money and fame, but experience becoming, to find out what’s inside you, to make your soul grow."