A recent discussion about art in contemporary society highlighted three aspects: production of objects is no longer privileged ( doing less is also a creative act), a single author is replaced by co-creatives, art does not require an audience for its completion but a usership.
Lately, I have been thinking about sangha, especially sesshin, as performance art. We are co-creating a space for the integration of form and formlessness that does not require an audience for its completion. Rather it is an embodiment for the use of all beings.
I recently wrote about my first sesshin experience as being a beautiful dance. Although the members of the sangha had individual roles, all flowed fluidly as one in co-creating a wonderful performance. Even a perceived misstep was lovingly embraced as adding to the richness and harmony of the dance. Performance art, yes indeed. I am most greateful for being given the space to twirl. Deep bows! MaryEllen
ReplyDeleteA beautiful thought. It never occurred to me that doing less is creative. But it is obvious when pointed out; especially these days!
ReplyDeleteWhen we do less we are like the audience becoming quite in anticipation of a creative performance. The performance of the Universe/Dharma.
It is always here.
Thank you.