The intention of the Dharma and Arts symposium is to create an ongoing conversation around the relationship between dharma practice and artistic practice. This is a time for experienced dharma practitioners who are also committed artists to share their perspectives on how they see their engagement with both practices, what difficulties they encounter, what inspirations they bring from one practice to another, and what might further their inspirations even more.
The symposium will include short presentations on topics such as historical and textual contexts, creativity, and ethics, followed by small group discussions; art activities; meditation; and ample time for conversation. Panelists will include Stephen Batchelor, Ruth Ozeki, Roshi Pat O’Hara, David McMahan, William Edelglass, Gay Watson, Mu Soeng, Mirka Knaster, Rosalyn Driscoll, Julie Puttgen, and others.
In addition to the panelists, speakers, and organizers, we are looking for a small number of people to participate in this initial conversation. Due to the limited space at BCBS, there are many more people interested in this topic than we can accommodate. To assemble a diverse, focused group, we will be selecting participants from a range of artistic disciplines, contemplative practices, ethnicity, gender, and geography. We invite you to apply to attend the symposium, with the understanding that, if not selected, you will have other opportunities to engage with this initiative. The symposium is only the beginning of a larger, longer investigation. We are designing ways to be involved beyond this event, and other avenues will emerge from the symposium.
The price for room and board for the three nights is on a sliding scale from $297 – $450. Scholarship funds are available.
Please fill out the following application by December 31, and we will notify everyone by January 10.
