Zen and the Art of Photography
New York Open Center, New York NY, with Douglas Beasley, January 14 – 15, 2011
Integrate your spiritual practice with your artistic or photo practice. This workshop is about continuing the experience of awareness and consciousness into our photography. Through photo exercises and assignments we will learn to deepen our visual awareness while clarifying our approach, making image making both more personal and more meaningful. This workshop provides a unique opportunity to rethink your expectations of what it means to 'see'. We will work on cultivating simplicity and making more powerful photographs, supporting the notion that a photograph is not 'taken' but made. We become stronger visually by becoming more in touch with our inner selves and then use that awareness to deepen our connection with our subject, whether person, place, or thing. The power of intuition fueled by the balance of contemplation and decisiveness (be mindful/act now) will be explored. Much practical advice will be given but more importantly you will practice using this information to make more powerful and meaningful images.
Zen & the Art of Photography is a challenging invitation to redefine not only what is personally suitable subject matter but your whole approach to creative expression. Inspiration will be sparked by a balance of group discussion, sitting and walking Zen meditation, readings on photography and the creative process, writing exercises, inspirational poetry or whatever means necessary. Photo exercises and assignments done in and around the Center and a nearby park will facilitate both internal and external growth. Expect to learn from fellow students as well as from class activities. Because this is a short workshop, the process of image making itself will be emphasized over editing and critiques.
The New York Open Center is a non-profit educational and cultural center offering programs intended to heal the body, nourish the soul and awaken the spirit. It aims to serve as a focal point for holistic thought and practice in the heart of New York City, near Central Park.
Student testimonials from this workshop:
“I just wanted to write you and tell you what an incredible experience your latest workshop in Santa Fe was. It was exactly what I was looking for and more! You’re such an inspirational teacher. In fact, today after work I am going out and doing your simplify exercise.” — Nate Proctor, Walnut Creek, CA
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“I just wanted to write you and tell you what an incredible experience your latest workshop in Santa Fe was. It was exactly what I was looking for and more! You’re such an inspirational teacher. In fact, today after work I am going out and doing your simplify exercise.” — Nate Proctor, Walnut Creek, CA
“The week’s experience with you has provided a base for my recommitment to photography. Everyone’s willingness to share and to listen to our personal individual photographic ‘hang-ups’ was very special.” — Woody Widlund, North River, NY
“I want to thank you again for what I learned and experienced in Santa Fe. I often find myself focusing on what I learned in your workshop and applying it during my shooting. I am also much more confident in my work and my vision.” — Cheryl Malone, Quincy MA
“I am writing to thank you for a life changing experience. My wife and I cried as we reviewed my photos from the course — especially the self-portrait. I know your teaching, or leading, has touched others before, but I hope you live a rich life for the incredible experience you have given me. And I learned some photography too.” — Blake Martin, South Windsor, CT
“I just want to send a personal note to tell you how much I enjoyed the workshop. I learned things that will help me move forward in my search for more creativity and feeling in my work.” — Jim McKinniss, Rodondo Beach, CA
“My images from this week have a certain resonance and emotional vibrance that my previous images did not have.” — Bob Kessler, Chicago, IL
“That short few days we spent together will be with me the rest of my life.” — Roderick Vesper, Cincinnati, OH
“Yours was the best workshop I was a part of in Santa Fe.” — Laura Ryan, Tierra Amerilla, NM
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Who should attend:
This class is appropriate for all levels and all types of cameras. While participants should have a working knowledge of their camera, the creative process of image making will be emphasized over the mechanics of camera use. Open to all levels of experience but better suited to those looking to expand their creativity and vision. This workshop is perfect for those who want to try a shorter weekend version of Doug’s normal week-long Zen & the Art of Photography seminar.
Which Zen workshop is right for me?
Dates:
Friday evening January 14, 7:00 – 10:00 PM and Saturday June 15, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, 2011
Cost:
$160.00/members, $175/nonmembers, paid directly to New York Open Center.
http://www.opencenter.org/zen-and-the-art-of-photography/
Registration information:
To register, please contact New York Open Center directly at 212-219-2527 or info@opencenter.org.