In some circles like academia and teaching, there is an expectation, even a pressure, to have art imbibed with meaning. It’s not enough to make pretty pictures; there has to be a narrative. Art is made for different reasons and to convey different things; sometimes it’s ideas; other times, it offers up experiences. There is […]
Is Buddhism Nihilistic?
With the idea in Buddhism of No-Self or Non-self, there is a thought and concern that Buddhism is Nihilistic, denying any existence or meaning in life. It’s sometimes criticism of Buddhist philosophy, and we have questions as we investigate Buddhism. Illusion and Non-existence One reason why such an accusation of forwards is the Buddhist idea […]
Buddhism and the quest for meaning and purpose
In my experience and understanding, such questions as ‘Why are we here?’ ‘What my ultimate purpose in life?” can’t be answered definitively. I don’t need the consoling beliefs offered up by other religions like theism. Such views are always metaphysical (Place your faith in God). I looked into metaphysics and concluded it’s a waste of […]
Buddhism is Spiritual Minimalism
One of the things I’ve noticed about Buddhism is the philosophy doesn’t offer answers to the big questions. Whereas other religions strut around claiming there is a truth, and they have it. Why we are here? Why is the cosmos the way it is and no some other way? (You know the whole Ultimate Truth […]
How to find the right path in life
I often ask myself if what I’m doing is the right thing. I have only so much time and I want to use it wisely. Is art my way forwards, and if so what type of art? Would I do better leaving my job to become a full time artist? Is writing more my forte? […]