In the Present Moment: Buddhism, Contemporary Art and Social Practice

To explore how artists have grappled with the concept of being in the present moment by using their art practice to explore this deceptively complex concept and to give that inquiry aesthetic form, In the Present Moment: Buddhism, Contemporary Art, and Social Practice explores the intersection of Buddhist thought and artistic production in North America from the mid-20th century to the present.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Figure 1 Publishing

In Buddhist philosophy, the concept of being in the present moment is a practice of living mindfully with full awareness of the world, including an awareness of the consequences of one's actions. It is a state of active presence combined with profound peace and joyful appreciation, each cumulatively embracing the potential of the eternal now.

In the Present Moment: Buddhism, Contemporary Art, and Social Practice explores how artists have variously grappled with the concept of being in the present moment by using their art practice to explore this deceptively complex concept and to give that inquiry aesthetic form. Tracing a history of the intersection of Buddhist thought and artistic production in North America (United States and Canada) from the mid-20th century to the present, In the Present Moment draws on the extensive collections at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria along with leading research and, for many artists, lifelong investigations into the relationship between art, life, and Buddhist practice to explore how Buddhist ideas and philosophy have played an important and often underappreciated role in the development of contemporary art.

The exhibition showcases a diverse range of artistic approaches, including painting, sculpture, installation, and performance, that engage with Buddhist themes and concepts. Artists explore the interconnectedness of all things, the impermanence of life, the nature of suffering, and the path to enlightenment through their work. Some artists use traditional Buddhist symbols and imagery, while others incorporate more contemporary interpretations of Buddhist teachings.

One of the key themes of the exhibition is the idea of mindfulness, or the practice of being fully present in the moment. Artists use their work to encourage viewers to slow down, pay attention to their surroundings, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity. Mindfulness is a central tenant of Buddhist philosophy, and it is believed to have a transformative effect on both the individual and the broader society.

Another theme of the exhibition is the idea of compassion, or the desire to alleviate suffering and promote well-being for all beings. Artists use their work to explore the interconnectedness of human beings and the natural world, and to raise awareness of social and environmental issues that contribute to suffering. Some artists use their work to advocate for social change, while others use it to promote personal growth and self-awareness.

In the Present Moment: Buddhism, Contemporary Art, and Social Practice is a thought-provoking and immersive exhibition that offers a unique perspective on the intersection of Buddhist thought and artistic production. It provides a platform for artists to explore the complex and multifaceted nature of the present moment, and to contribute to a broader understanding of the role of Buddhism in contemporary society.
In Buddhist philosophy, the concept of being in the present moment is a practice of living mindfully with full awareness of the world, including an awareness of the consequences of one's actions. It is a state of active presence combined with profound peace and joyful appreciation, each cumulatively embracing the potential of the eternal now.

In the Present Moment: Buddhism, Contemporary Art, and Social Practice explores how artists have variously grappled with the concept of being in the present moment by using their art practice to explore this deceptively complex concept and to give that inquiry aesthetic form. Tracing a history of the intersection of Buddhist thought and artistic production in North America (United States and Canada) from the mid-20th century to the present, In the Present Moment draws on the extensive collections at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria along with leading research and, for many artists, lifelong investigations into the relationship between art, life, and Buddhist practice to explore how Buddhist ideas and philosophy have played an important and often underappreciated role in the development of contemporary art.

The exhibition showcases a diverse range of artistic approaches, including painting, sculpture, installation, and performance, that engage with Buddhist themes and concepts. Artists explore the interconnectedness of all things, the impermanence of life, the nature of suffering, and the path to enlightenment through their work. Some artists use traditional Buddhist symbols and imagery, while others incorporate more contemporary interpretations of Buddhist teachings.

One of the key themes of the exhibition is the idea of mindfulness, or the practice of being fully present in the moment. Artists use their work to encourage viewers to slow down, pay attention to their surroundings, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity. Mindfulness is a central tenant of Buddhist philosophy, and it is believed to have a transformative effect on both the individual and the broader society.

Another theme of the exhibition is the idea of compassion, or the desire to alleviate suffering and promote well-being for all beings. Artists use their work to explore the interconnectedness of human beings and the natural world, and to raise awareness of social and environmental issues that contribute to suffering. Some artists use their work to advocate for social change, while others use it to promote personal growth and self-awareness.

In the Present Moment: Buddhism, Contemporary Art, and Social Practice is a thought-provoking and immersive exhibition that offers a unique perspective on the intersection of Buddhist thought and artistic production. It provides a platform for artists to explore the complex and multifaceted nature of the present moment, and to contribute to a broader understanding of the role.

Weight: 906g
Dimension: 216 x 256 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781773271644