Monk’s artistic take on peace and inner strength

LONG Hua Art Museum, a gallery in Seri Kembangan, will be hosting a Great Zen Exhibition featuring Chinese ink artworks by Rev Da Chan.

The travelling exhibition showcases more than 60 art pieces by the monk who is based in a monastery in Beijing, China. These include calligraphy pieces, paintings of nature and semi-abstract artworks. The calligraphy pieces feature Chinese poetry written by Da Chan himself.

Da Chan said Great Zen Exhibition marked his first exhibition outside China, with Malaysia chosen as its first stop. It will later travel to another 15 destinations such as Egypt, France, Japan and the UAE.

“I created several new Chinese ink artworks specifically for the Malaysian exhibition. The showcase in other countries will feature some of my earlier works.

“I like Malaysia because it’s a beautiful place. It’s unique because of its multiculturalism and diversity,” said Da Chan.

He was speaking after the launch of the exhibition, which was attended by Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun.

Da Chan said it took him one month to complete the artworks for the exhibition.

“I was able to paint only at night, as I was busy handling the monastery affairs in the daytime. It wasn’t a difficult task to complete. I found myself losing track of time and being completely focused on the painting once inspiration came,” he said.

As an artist, Da Chan believes there is a link between art and spirituality.

“Art is a demonstration of inner strength and peace. It makes you care more about society, humanity and the universe,” he said.

Monk’s artistic take on peace and inner strength

Source: www.thestar.com.my