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ART IN NATURE: THE PHOTOGRAPHS OF JOHN DAIDO LOORIJUNE 15, 2004 - JANUARY 9, 2005  Beach Flower© John Daido LooriJohn Daido Loori, scientist, photographer, and Zen master, explores the link between Buddhism and artistic inspiration with more than 25 striking abstract photographs of Point Lobos State Reserve in California. His photographs of kelp strands on the shore, algae, starfish, and sea-tossed stones echo the contours of larger landscapes and the curves of the human body. Contemplative and sensuous, the images bridge a gap between viewers and the world around them.  Sea Debris© John Daido LooriLoori's photographs form the core of a unique program that cultivates an appreciation of the relationship of Zen spirituality to our natural environment. He admits entering the spiritual life through the "back door of the arts." Loori grew up in a working-class family in Jersey City, New Jersey, joined the Navy, and later worked for 17 years as a physical chemist while nurturing a lifelong love of photography. It wasn't until he began studying with the influential photographer Minor White that Loori recognized a spiritual element in his work. He then underwent 14 years of both lay and monastic Zen training in New York and California. In 1980, Loori founded the Zen Mountain Monastery in Mt. Tremper, New York, considered one of the leading Zen training centers in the United States.  Subtle Beckoning© John Daido LooriArt in Nature coincides with the publication of Loori's two latest books, The Zen of Creativity: Cultivating Your Artistic Life (Ballantine Books) and Hearing with the Eye: Point Lobos Photographs (Dharma Communications Press). Drawing on over 40 years of experience as an artist and Zen teacher, Loori shows how classic Zen meditation, zazen, can provide a wellspring of inspiration.  Wave Echo© John Daido Loori |
