Eric Arbiter and Maite Leal, two artists.
A Series of 4 Classes Tuesdays, April 6 - 27, 6:30-8:30 pm. Taught by Rev. Eric Arbiter and Maite Leal
Human creative expression is one of the most powerful forces in the world and in our lives. Engagement with and appreciation of art is all about seeing. Much too often though in our busy existence filled with almost continual activity we forget to really stop to see. But when we drop into stillness we begin to see with new eyes and the gates of the Dharma open before us. When we learn to see like an artist gratitude awakens in us and the whole world is made better for it.
During this class, Maite and Eric will explore the following questions:
What is the function of art?
How does engaging with the arts help us develop and appreciate “the eye of the artist”?
How is art an entry into the Dharma?
Is there a direct relationship between art and ethical behavior?
How do we recognize, appreciate and engage in creative expression in our lives?
We will explore these questions broadly by examining of works of art from different periods and cultures, in its many forms; the visual arts, music and literature, to show how the arts lead us to the gates of the Dharma.
Participants will have the opportunity of visiting local museums. We will ask that participants listen to assigned music pieces and read passages from literature and poetry we will provide online. We will examine our lives to discover, appreciate and encourage, perhaps hitherto unrecognized creative expressions in our lives. Journaling is not required but is encouraged.
Eric is a musician, recently retired from the Houston Symphony Orchestra, and a senior member of HZC.
Maite is a long-time Zen practitioner. She lives her life restoring art. She works at MFAH.