A workshop and a painting with poet Bashō are featured here

“Will You Turn Toward Me” by Marilyn Wells 14″ x 18″ on mulberry paper $325.00

“I’m Lonely Too”

Will you turn toward me?

I am lonely too,

this autumn evening.

  – Basho 1905S

This simple plea is poignant with the simplicity and directness. This is not attachment; this is not detachment. Instead, this is a true experience in a single moment of truth and honesty. Bashō, celebrated as the greatest of the Zen poets, wrote between 1644-94 and is still compared to Shakespeare and Michaelangelo in the West. His work was always fresh and resonant, as “It is at the edge of transition that we fine experience”. (Robert Aitken). His verses often seem simple and undramatic, yet his flavor always “lingers, rather than being apparent at first and then quickly fading”. (Stephen Addiss).

workshop – last chance to sign in

SUMI E WORKSHOP: MARCH 26, 2022, 10:00 to 3:30. I will touch on the use of simple elements from nature. After a review of brushstrokes and meditative warm-up, you will create abstract Sumi e paintings based on quotes from both ancient Asian poems and contemporary verse or music. FOOTHILLSARTCENTER.ORG FOR DETAILS.

more nature in sumi e abstract work

I also work in a more subject oriented style, see my previous blog with Cattails and come to the class at Foothills to be inspired.

“Let’s fan your own inner spark and light – to experience more openness of heart and soul and being more fully alive.” – Marilyn Wells