I spent this past weekend at the Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe attending a calligraphy workshop taught by Zen teacher, environmentalist, and peaceworker, Kazuaki Tanahashi.

I've been a student of the Japanese language for many years and, in my own self-taught sort of way, love to use the written language to decorate the pottery I make. This workshop was the perfect opportunity for me to experience this beautiful art form at a deeper level, and, at the same time, get a real taste of Zen culture. The days were filled with meditation, work practice (cleaning, cooking, etc.), delicious vegetarian meals, more meditation, and, of course, hours of calligraphy.

Highlights included working with an enormous brush

and using color

I left the workshop and zendo feeling inspired to continue my exploration of Shodo and allow myself time to fully enjoy the way of the brush.

And I can do this with the pots I make!

How cool is that?