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4.14 of 5 stars
For many of us, the return of Zen conjures up images of rock gardens and gently flowing waterfalls. We think of mindfulness and meditation, immersi... read full description

reviews

Feb 04, 2012
Dwan rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Such a strong contrast to the last Zen book I read (Everyday Zen, by Joko Beck). It will definitely affect my approach to both my Zen practice and my creative explorations.

That said, this is ultimately a Zen text - in other locations I've seen reviewers complain that it wasn't what they were expecting, but in each of these cases, as best I can determine, the reviewer was more interested in exploring his or her creativity and was not interested in deepening his/her understanding of Zen
Dec 27, 2008
Leslita rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I like it a lot more than the Artist's Way. I have to be careful to stay grounded and not just believe in cosmic moments of creativity, but it is generally very grounded in an approach to concrete ways to foster and encourage creativity.
Dec 12, 2011
Susie rated it: 4 of 5 stars
Loori writes with great compassion and understanding of Zen, and explains with as great a depth as is possible regarding the creative process. Very inspirational.
Jun 22, 2011
Nathalia rated it: 1 of 5 stars
I had to read this for one of my courses and quite frankly, all I have to say is that it just wasn't for me.
Aug 03, 2011
Carole rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is a series of essays on creativity in general and how Daido Loori teaches creativity and photography. The later essays deal more specifically on the creative arts in Zen with brief and lucid discussions of calligraphy, different styles of painting, and poetry. The books is illustrated with wonderful examples of works that he describes.
May 19, 2009
Ginette rated it: 3 of 5 stars
This is one of those books you don't really appreciate until you actually have had time to marinate the ideas set forth and put some of them to use. If anything, I've become more aware and appreciative of the small and seemingly unimportant things around me; I've been believing in myself more as I have been letting ideas flow without prejudice; and I have newfound artistic inspiration, which hasn't happened in a long long time. Now I just need to dig out my art supplies and visit the art store.
May 30, 2008
Valerie rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This book came to me at a time when I needed to rethink my creative life -- I was putting tremendous "effort" into my writing, but little was working. This book had a quieting effect on me and taught me something about the intangible creative process as well as patience (at least where my process is concerned). Excellent, too, for anyone interested in Zen Buddhism.
0 comments like (1 person liked it)
Apr 22, 2008
Diane rated it: 2 of 5 stars
I think this is a book geared toward the artist who is just starting out or perhaps an artist who needs a kick-start for their work.

The book seems to fall into three sections: looking at your art in a different way, how to meditate, and Zen koans.

If you are searching with your art work and have a spiritual bent you may enjoy this book.
May 10, 2010
Kelly Jo rated it: 3 of 5 stars
For those already familiar with the philosphiy of Zen Buddhism, this book provides an excellent introduction to the application of Zen to an artistic life. It's full of excellent anecdotes and wisdom from Zen Master Loori. Good for artists of all kinds.
Feb 10, 2008
Edward rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I've read this twice in two years, taking notes each time. It not only clearly lays out the basics of Zen practice but also how they intersect with the practice of art. It's wise and luminous.
Feb 21, 2008
Tere is currently reading it
Just starting this one. need for class in March 2008
Apr 11, 2011
Chana is currently reading it
If you come upon the Buddha, kill the Buddha.
Oct 08, 2011
Tara rated it: 5 of 5 stars
This is one to continue to return to.
Nov 27, 2008
Michael rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I need to get my Zen groove back.
May 21, 2008
Sirpa rated it: 3 of 5 stars
Nice beach reading.
Dec 17, 2009
Nicole rated it: 1 of 5 stars
I call bullshit.
Feb 11, 2012
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