Expressing the inexpressible.
Zen practice includes the whole of life. Practicing bare attention to what IS, is a moment-to-moment contemplative experience. It helps one see through craving, aversion and self-centered projections — to notice reality as it is. Ancient zen masters carefully observed the natural world and practiced expressing its true essence through their minimalist ink paintings and works of calligraphy, which is continued today. They “became one” with their environments, producing fluid and uncontrived depictions.

At WLHZ we encourage individuals to practice zen in the arts. Lotus Arts workshops, offered throughout the year, provide learning and practice opportunities in the areas of art, music, poetry, cooking, and other forms of creative expression.

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When the mind is at peace,
the world too is at peace.
Nothing real, nothing absent.
Not holding on to reality,
not getting stuck in the void,
you are neither holy nor wise, just
an ordinary fellow who has completed his work.
— Layman P’ang