World like a dewdrop Acrylic on canvas 122x76cm Tom Cullen 2011
"World like a dewdrop
Though it's only a dewdrop
Even so,even so."
Issa
I painted "World like a dewdrop" recently in 2011, having read and been influenced by Japanese haiku poetry. I wanted to explore and interpret some of the principles of haiku in a visual way and through my own language of abstract expressionism.The question of scale interested me. I wanted to develop a relationship between a small entity in the painting and the larger expanse of the canvas itself,using vibrant colour to dictate both harmony and contrast.
Haiku poetry emerged in Japan in the 16th century and has it's roots in the tradition of Tanga and the developments of Renga.In original format,it consists of three lines of five,seven and five syllables respectively.There are nine haiku rules, which include stating that the poem should be simple and immediate. It should also have connections with real events, sights, sounds or emotions.Another technique used is the contrast between the large and the small, the cosmic and the individual or the profound and the everyday.By comparing the world to a dewdrop for instance, we are forced to change perspective.This may alter our pre-conceived ideas and meanings about our relationship with the world.
There are also links with the Zen Buddhist concepts of Change and Impermanence,Suffering and Compassion,Simplicity and Momentariness,Non-self. Everything is in constant state of change and suffering is key to human existence. Compassion for ourselves and others is essential to combat pain.By learning to live with a little ,keeping life simple and by trying to live in the moment we can also come to terms with the human condition.Ultimately,the idea of a permanent self and ownership is an illusion.
"World like a dewdrop" is on show at the W3 Gallery, Acton Town,London from June 5th as part of the "Celebrating Sanctuary" Exhibition.
You offer much to reflect on Tom. The Way of Zen with its emphasis on detachment and transcendence finds parallels in western spirituality e.g. in the writings of Meister Eckhart. Indeed this 13th century theologian and mystic has sometimes been claimed as one of their own by Buddhist writers. To live with an openness to being was also for example,one of Heidegger's main tenets. He wrote that there are two kinds of thinking. a. Calculative Thinking and b. Meditative Thinking it is the latter that is open to being. I find the lack of emphasis on Love in buddhism to be difficult to accept. "Compassion" comes near to it, but it doesnt have the fulness of mutuality - giving and receiving which western disciplines and spiritualities emphasise. That is why I find a certain coldness in the singularity and solitary nature of buddhist teachings and way of Life. Your visual captures for me, a degree of this isolation and ultra-independence of the spirit of Zen. I hope the dew-drop grows into a fount of life, of love and happiness. Thank you for sharing your talent and work with us. Seo.
ReplyDeleteI like your 'World like a dewdrop', Tom:-)
ReplyDeleteWa, Kei, Sei, Jaku,
ReplyDeleteFor me " World like a dewdrop" captures a brilliant Japanese and Eastern enlightenment. Represents quiet, simplicity of Japanese Haiku poems and Zen Buddhism ( Appreciate your beautifully written words above), reason to wake up in the morning share tea ceremony with it, my ritual wabi-sabi journey through "World like dewdrop" and ofcourse company of Chabana's simple balance and happiness. Tnank you Tom "World like dew drop" represents part of my heart-beat!