Hakuin (1686-1768) was a Zen priest of Rinzai shcool, and he painted and drew calligraphy about 10,000 pieces. Now Tokyu Bunkamura holds “HAKUIN, The Hidden Messages of Zen Art” exhibition at Shibuya, Tokyo.
Hakuin at Bunkamura, Tokyo
13 Sunday Jan 2013
For your entertainment… One day Master Hakuin was giving a Zen talk that was interrupted by much clapping, so much so that he asked his audience, “Could you please hold your applause to one hand?” Hence the famous koan was born.
In this exhibition, there are many drawings with Koan. They are very interesting, but it is difficult to understand if there are not explanation of them.
Yes. Understanding how one of Hakuin’s art works relates to any particular koan requires a deep understanding of Zen and Japanese culture. My Dec. 2, 2012 “Blind Men Crossing the Bridge” was my attempt at understanding the complexities of that particular painting by Master Hakuin. Although I liked the result (i.e., my comment), I’m sure scholars would likely say my short commentary was superficial. Still. It was interesting to try and grasp the meaning of that which cannot be grasped. And, of course, my above note on the sound of one hand was meant only for your amusement. We here in Canada like to laugh.
Take care.