Upaya Zen Center on campus Santa Fe, NM

Instructor(s): Roshi Joan Halifax, PhD; Roshi Enkyo O'Hara, PhD; Sensei Kaz Tanahashi; Sensei Jose Shinzan Palma; Sensei Monshin; Sensei Matthew Kozan Palevsky; Sensei Noah Kodo Roen

Description: Rohatsu Sesshin is an intensive, concentrated, and joyous retreat to celebrate the spiritual breakthrough of Shakyamuni Buddha along with other meditators worldwide. It is a powerful gathering of practitioners and friends who are dedicated to realizing the way. 

We are grateful that Upaya’s Abbot, Roshi Joan Halifax, and Village Zendo’s Abbot, Roshi Enkyo O’Hara, along with esteemed Dogen scholar Sensei Kazuaki Tanahashi, will lead us during this powerful time of intensive practice. Joining them will be Senseis Kodo Roen, Kozan Palevsky, Monshin Overley, and Shinzan Palma. Practice interviews will be offered by many of our faculty members (TBD).

The retreat is in silence, with sitting and walking meditation, eating formally as a community (oryoki), daily dharma talks, private interviews with teachers, liturgy and work practice (samu). Sesshin provides a powerful container supporting the unification of body and mind, and our individuality with the community and the world.

*Special note about oryoki — in this tradition, all meals are vegan and gluten-free. We are unable to accommodate further dietary sensitivities. If your dietary sensitivities are outside of vegan and gluten-free, we suggest you consider another retreat option as we are unable to meet all dietary needs.  Thank you.

All applications are reviewed. This is the only sesshin that Roshi leads during the year. In general, she prioritizes attendance for her students and those of Roshi Enkyo, as well as people who have experience with sitting longer sesshins. We also ask that you are able to commit to sitting the entire sesshin with the community. We are not able to accommodate latecomers or those who wish to leave early.

Thoughtfully consider before applying. We ask that you graciously understand if we are unable to accommodate your request to attend. If we cannot accept you at this time, please consider signing up for one of the other programs and sesshins that are offered at Upaya throughout the year.

REFUND/CANCELLATION POLICY

Should you need to cancel, please consider donating your previously made payment to Upaya.

• Balances are due October 2, for this retreat.

• Upaya retains a $50 processing fee for all cancellations prior to September 15th.

• If you cancel from September 16-October 2, Upaya retains the $100 deposit.

• If you cancel anytime from October 3-31,  50% of all fees (the tuition and housing upgrade, if applicable) is non-refundable.

• If you cancel anytime from November 1 – December 1, 100% of your tuition and housing upgrade (if applicable) is non-refundable.

We encourage trip insurance in the event a last minute situation out of your control prevents your attendance.

Schedule:

This retreat will begin on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 7:45 p.m. U.S. Mountain Standard Time and conclude on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. (MST).

• A detailed schedule is forthcoming.

Please review our cancellation policy here.

Maximum Participants 50
Application Fee $0
Program Fee (Members) $891
Program Fee (Non-Members) $990

Registration for this event includes meals as well as dormitory lodging for all 7 nights. You have the option of upgrading or extending your lodging if you like.

• Upgrading to a double (2 guests per room) will add $525 to your total.

• Upgrading to a single (private room) will add $1,050 to your total.

After being accepted, you will need to pay a $200 deposit to secure your place in the program.

Please review our health protocol for in-person programs here.

If you have registered for this program, please access the RESOURCE PAGE here.

If the program is full, you may contact us at registrar@upaya.org to get on the wait list, or go to the Online Program Page to join online.

Zen Brush Workshop
Kazuaki Tanahashi, Sensei
Christine Renden Haggarty
September 14 & 15, 2024
9:00 - 4:30pm

Theme for 2023: Be

Registration Information:

Tentative Schedule for both days:

9-12 Start with a short meditation, then calligraphy practice and demonstrations.

12-1:30 Lunch/Break
1:30-4:30 Calligraphy practice and demonstrations.
Cost for the two day workshop is $250, or if you want to only participate one day the cost is $140.

To register before August for the workshop, send a $110 deposit to, after August send the full amount to:
Zen Brush Workshop
10688 Grays Court*
Forestville, CA 95436
Make checks payable to Zen Brush Workshop.

Coronavirus Notice: All county wide meeting requirements will be followed.

*PLEASE NOTE: Since the workshop has moved to Windsor Masonic Lodge lunch is no longer included in the workshop fee. Many restaurants nearby or refrigerator available to store lunch items.

Cancellation:  For a cancellation request 90 days before the workshop, a cancellation fee of 25% of the total cost will be levied.  A cancellation less than 30 days before the workshop, a 25% cancellation fee will be changed, AS LONG AS WE HAVE A REPLACEMENT PARTICIPANT, otherwise a 75% cancellation fee will be charged.  Extreme circumstances will be taken into consideration.

Lodging

Windsor is located between Santa Rosa and Healdsburg. In Windsor there is a Holiday Inn Express Windsor and Hampton Inn and Suites Windsor. If you want to travel 3 or 4 miles south to North Santa Rosa there is Hilton Garden Inn Sonoma County Airport (3 miles from Windsor) and Fairview Inn and Suites (4.8 miles from Windsor). Healdsburg is another option bring your credit card.

Once a year Kazuaki Tanahashi, Sensei comes to Sonoma County to give a two day workshop, exploring all aspects of Asian calligraphy.  Tanahashi, Sensei is a painter, calligrapher, writer and peace activist, whose early training was in Japan. 

Date: June 22-25, 2024. Registration takes place from 2 PM – 5 PM on your program start date.

Location: Drala Mountain Center - 151 Shambhala Way, Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545

Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies, Drala Mountain Center (DMC) provides the perfect retreat setting for studying yoga, meditation and contemplative arts. DMC combines natural beauty, unspoiled wilderness, blue skies and crisp mountain air with the comforts of a modern retreat campus. Our accommodations range from fine lodge rooms with private baths to shared same-gender dormitories and economically-priced seasonal tents on wooded hillsides. Meals, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, are included in lodging.

This is a place where many wisdom traditions are hosted, and we welcome all people inspired to explore the nature of self and society. Join us and enjoy our beautiful location and warm hospitality.

Description: Become a brush and, step by step, we will find ways to foster joy and serene excitement, both in our art and in everyday life. Experiment with artistic interpretation and spontaneous improvisation using a variety of papers and brushes.
During this contemplative retreat, we will explore the 1,700-year-old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy and engage our hearts in learning and creativity. We will faithfully copy selected ideographs in the different styles of ancient Chinese masterpieces. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice how our inner criticism keeps us from fully enjoying each moment.

For more information and registration go to: https://www.dralamountain.org/program/hb624-heart-of-the-brush/

Location: Biblioteca Museo Correr, Piazza San Marco, Venezia VE, Italy
Masterclass conducted by Kazuaki Tanahashi
Registrations to our masterclasses will open on April 7.

COST
The cost of each module is 350 euros per participant. Maximum 18 students. The price includes: - Invitation to the opening of the East West Calligraphy exhibition, Friday 17 November 2023. - Museum Pass to visit all the permanent collections of Civic Museums of Venice (Palazzo Ducale, Museo Correr, Ca' Rezzonico, House of Carlo Goldoni, Palazzo Mocenigo, International Gallery of Modern Art of Ca' Pesaro, Glass Museum - Murano, Lace Museum – Burano, Natural History Museum). - discount at the cafeteria of the Correr Museum and the International Gallery of Modern Art at Ca' Pesaro, from 17 to 26 November.

MATERIALS
The stationery material to be used during the workshops will be brought by the participants, who will receive in time the list of necessary materials.

CONTACT
biblioteca.correr@fmcvenezia.it
+39 041 2405211

For more information go to: https://correr.visitmuve.it/en/eventi-en/eventi-in-corso-en/events-east-west-calligraphy/2023/03/22224/events-east-west-calligraphy/

Monica Dengo, Master Western Calligrapher
Kazuaki Tanahashi, Master East Asian Calligrapher

This workshop returns to the iconic city of Venice for the last time.  The workshop is a fusion of these two calligraphic traditions in the city where Marco Polo ventured forth to explore the east.  Monica and Kaz come together again to create this life-altering inspirational workshop. Practitioners of either or both traditions are welcome, but no previous experience in those traditions is necessary to attend. All materials are included in the price of the workshop. Instruction will be given in English.

Participants will be instructed from Kaz’s book Heart of the Brush in the art form of East Asian calligraphy. Also, he will work with participants that have individual projects.

Monica using the Roman alphabet will take participants from the meaning of the letters to an asemic structure of line and form.

The workshop will take place at Palazzo Minotto in the Gaffaro section of Dorsoduro and is limited to 15 participants.

The cost of the workshop is 1050 Euros or $1120 USD based on the currency exchange in January 2023. This will be adjusted in September 2023 for a more recent conversion. This fee does not include airfare or accommodations. Early registration ends June  1, 2023 and a deposit of 1/2 of the workshop fee should be made by then. After June 1 the workshop fee is 1200 Euros.

For more detailed information and to sign up go to zenbrush.net. To ensure accurate communication send your inquiries in English.

November is the start of low season in Venice, when the weather can still be very good and accommodations are more affordable.  On the website zenbrush.net there is a listing of accommodations near the workshop site. Please check to find the current rates.

Location: Shambhala Mountain Center · 151 Shambhala Way, Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545

Instructor: Sensei Kaz Tanahashi

Tuition: $250 + 3 nights

Description:

Become a brush and, step by step, we will find ways to foster joy and serene excitement, both in our art and in everyday life. Experiment with artistic interpretation and spontaneous improvisation using a variety of papers and brushes.

During this contemplative retreat, we will explore the 1,700-year-old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy and engage our hearts in learning and creativity. We will faithfully copy selected ideographs in the different styles of ancient Chinese masterpieces. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice how our inner criticism keeps us from fully enjoying each moment.

Schedule:
Registration takes place from 2– 5 pm on your program start date. All participants and volunteer staff must check in at our Guest Registration house. Please arrive before 5 pm to check-in and settle into your accommodations. Your program begins with dinner, followed by an orientation. The Guest Registration house closes at 5 pm after which no one is available to provide information or orient you to your accommodations. All programs usually end at 12:30 pm on the program's departure date, followed by lunch. Further specifics regarding your program's schedule will be available upon arrival. If applicable, you will receive an email from the program coordinator in the week prior to your program with any additional information you may need.

For more information go to https://www.shambhalamountain.org
email: frontdesk@shambhalamountain.org or call 970-881-2184

20th ANNIVERSARY REDUX

Zen Brush Workshop
Instructors: Kazuaki Tanahashi, Sensei, Christine Renden Haggarty

Theme for 2021: Unity

Tentative Schedule for both days:

9-12   Start with meditation, then calligraphy practice and demonstrations.

12-1:30   Lunch/Break

1:30-4:30   Start with meditation, then calligraphy practice and demonstrations.

Cost for the two day workshop is $195, or if you want to only participate one day the cost is $120.

To register before August for the workshop, send a $110 deposit to, after August send the full amount to:
Zen Brush Workshop
10688 Grays Court*
Forestville, CA 95436

Make checks payable to Zen Brush Workshop.

Coronavirus Notice: Mandatory vaccination is required to attend the workshop. All county wide meeting requirements will be followed.

*PLEASE NOTE: For the 2019 workshop we were forced to make a last minute change to the workshop site, which I’m sorry to have caused some confusion.  I have found a place in downtown Windsor. Because our previous venues were in rural settings lunch was provided; now that we are in downtown Windsor there are many restaurants available for lunch. The price of the workshop has been reduced to reflect this change. If you want to bring your lunch there is a refrigerator available but no cooking facilities.

Cancellation:  For a cancellation request 30 days before the workshop, a cancellation fee of 25% of the total cost will be levied.  A cancellation less than 30 days before the workshop, a 25% cancellation fee will be changed, AS LONG AS WE HAVE A REPLACEMENT PARTICIPANT, otherwise a 75% cancellation fee will be charged.  Extreme circumstances will be taken into consideration.

Lodging

If you need lodging for Saturday night, there are several B & B’s in the area.  Farm House Inn and Raford Inn, tend to be on the expensive side, but are very close to the workshop site.  In Sebastopol (about 20 minutes away), there is the Sebastopol Inn and the Fairfield Inn with  more reasonable rates.  By the airport, which is about the same distance as Sebastopol only north, Hilton Garden Inn Sonoma County Airport. Camping is available at Mirabel Campgrounds and River Bend Campgrounds.  Both are near the workshop site.

Once a year Kazuaki Tanahashi, Sensei comes to Sonoma County to give a two day workshop, exploring all aspects of Asian calligraphy.  Tanahashi, Sensei is a painter, calligrapher, writer and peace activist, whose early training was in Japan. 

 Comments made from participants at previous workshops:

“Embracing failure, joy and mindfulness always worth renewal. Enriching in big and small ways. Kaz is truly a living treasure.”

“It’s always amazing that repetition of the same instructions registers differently each time.”

“The workshop is an opportunity to receive Kaz’s wealth of knowledge and caring instruction and to benefit from Christine’s generosity and organization.”

“Confronting perfectionism, a gift to my art deprived life; taking time for it.”

“Meditation, dancing with the brush, touching my heart”

“Reminders and practice to SLOW DOWN and breathe in the vastness…and to be attentive to detail!  Visual and visceral experience of sensei’s movements of brush and ink on paper is a delight.  I’m in awe.”

“I found it to be, as I had hoped, an opportunity to expand conceptually my own art.”

“Besides all the good teaching, a new respect for “dew drops” is mine!”

“Kaz has a wonderful way of teaching by example – slow and precise, but free and smiling.  Great sense of humor.”

Cancelled for Public Safety

Location: Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, Tassajara, Carmel Valley, California

Instructor(s): Kazuaki Tanahashi, Linda Hess

For information contact: www.sfzc.org/tassajara. tassrez@sfzc.org. (415) 865 1899.

Cancelled for Public Safety

Location: Upaya Zen Center Santa Fe, NM

Instructor(s): Roshi Enkyo O'Hara, Sensei Kaz Tanahashi, Matthew Kozan Palevsky

Inspired by Zen Master Dogen’s poetic essay “Dharma Blossoms Turn Dharma Blossoms,” we explore the profound meaning of the blossoming of dharma and the role of each one of us for flourishing dharma.

Sesshin literally means ‘gathering the heart/mind’. A sesshin is an intensive multi-day Zen meditation retreat with a consistent schedule that creates a deep, quiet container for practice. Each day consists of sitting (zazen) and walking (kinhin) meditation, service and chanting (liturgy), formal meals in the zendo (oryoki*), personal interviews with the teachers, work practice (samu) and physical practice. We observe Noble Silence throughout and support each other in quiet, whole-hearted practice. It is recommended, although certainly not mandatory, that you participate in at least one day-long retreat (Zazenkai or Bodhidharma) before you sit sesshin to prepare you for this very deep and intimate practice.

*Special note about oryoki — in this tradition, all meals are vegan and gluten-free. We are unable to accommodate further dietary sensitivities. If your dietary sensitivities are outside of  vegan and gluten-free, we suggest you consider another retreat option.

Click here to complete an on-line Sesshin questionnaire.  Additionally, click here for a downloadable PDF of Guidelines of Conduct for a Practice Period/Sesshin.  At the end of the Sesshin questionnaire, you will be asked to affirm that you have read the Guidelines. Thank you.

Cancelled for Public Safety

Location: Shamahala Mountain Center Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Instructor: Kazuaki Tanahashi

Become a brush and, step by step, we will find ways to foster joy and serene excitement, both in our art and in everyday life. Experiment with artistic interpretation and spontaneous improvisation using a variety of papers and brushes.

During this contemplative retreat, we will explore the 1,700-year-old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy and engage our hearts in learning and creativity. We will faithfully copy selected ideographs in the different styles of ancient Chinese masterpieces. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice how our inner criticism keeps us from fully enjoying each moment.

Program Details

Registration takes place from 2– 5 pm on your program start date. All participants and volunteer staff must check in at our Guest Registration house. Please arrive before 5 pm to check in and settle into your accommodations. Your program begins with dinner, followed by an orientation. The Guest Registration house closes at 5 pm after which no one is available to provide information or orient you to your accommodations. All programs usually end at 12:30 pm on the program's departure date, followed by lunch. Further specifics regarding your program's schedule will be available upon arrival. If applicable, you will receive an email from the program coordinator in the week prior to your program with any additional information you may need.

For information: www.shambhalamountain.org.  callcenter@shambhalamountain.org. (888) 788-7221.

Location: Tai Chi Center of Madison 301 S Bedford St #219 Madison, Wisconsin

Dates: Friday May 29th, 7:00-8:30 pm, Saturday May 31st 9:30-4:30 (lunch included) and Sunday May 31st 9:30-3:00 (lunch included)

Become introduced to shodō, or the Way of the Brush, with master calligrapher, teacher, and Zen scholar, Kazuaki Tanahashi.

No previous experience in meditation or brushwork is necessary to join this workshop. It is appropriate for all levels of experience.

In this workshop you will learn the basic skills of brushwork as you practice copying ideographs from ancient Chinese masterpieces (the traditional way of studying brush calligraphy). You will also interpret these works and develop awareness in the moment while exploring how presence with the brush works in our heart, our mind, and our environs.

Kazuaki Tanahashi is an artist, calligrapher, Zen scholar, and peace and environmental activist. A Fellow of the World Academy of Art and Science, he has had solo exhibitions of his brushwork around the world. The author of many books, he is a treasured translator of Dōgen - the founder of Soto Zen. His books include Dōgen’s Treasury of the True Dharma Eye: Zen Master Dōgen's Shobo Genzo, Moon in a Dewdrop, Heart of the Brush: The Splendor of East Asian Calligraphy, Sky Above, Great Wind: The Life and Poetry of Zen Master Ryokan, The Heart Sutra: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classic of Mahayana Buddhism, and Brush Mind.

The fee is $215 for three days (Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday days.) The price includes all materials and Saturday and Sunday lunch. No previous experience in meditation or brushwork is necessary.

Kaz will also offer an advanced workshop on Ryokan’s calligraphy, Thursday May 28th into the afternoon of Friday, May 29th. For this workshop you do not need to consider yourself advanced, but previous experience with the brush and the brush strokes is assumed. Students with experience with the brush are invited to register for both workshops.

Kaz’s calligraphy will be for sale at special workshop prices for students.

For further information or to register, please email kaztanahashimadison@gmail.com

Location: Tai Chi Center of Madison 301 S Bedford St #219 Madison, Wisconsin

Dates: Thursday, May 28 2020 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Friday, May 29 2020: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Kazuaki Tanahashi the calligraphy of Zen Master Ryokan an advanced workshop on the calligraphy of 18th century Zen poet monk Ryokan.

Ryokan is considered, along with Dogen and Hakuin, one of the three giants of Zen in Japan. He is
now seen as one of the greatest poets of his period and was from his time recognized as a master calligrapher. Kaz will teach from Ryokan’s calligraphy of poems in Japanese cursive hiragana - the script of classical poetry - that Kaz has translated in Sky Above, Great Wind: The Life and Poetry of Zen Master Ryokan. We will also have the opportunity to practice sutra copying, a Zen meditative practice, with Ryokan’s brushing of the Heart Sutra in Chinese ideographs as our guide. As Kaz is also the author of The Heart Sutra: A Comprehensive Guide to the Classic of Mahayana Buddhism, it will be a remarkable opportunity to study closely with the beloved Zen calligrapher, artist, peace activist, and scholar, Kaz Tanahashi.

The author of many books, Kaz is a treasured translator of Dogen - the founder of Soto Zen, and a Fellow of the World Academy of Art and Science. His other books include Dogen’s Treasury of the True Dharma Eye, Moon in a Dewdrop, Heart of the Brush, Brush Mind and Painting Peace.

The fee for the two-day class is $185. The price includes supplies for sutra copying and other art materials (though participants may bring their own), and Friday lunch. Experience with the brush and knowledge of the basic strokes is assumed.

Kaz’s calligraphy and books will be for sale at workshop prices for students.

For further information or to register, please email kaztanahashimadison@gmail.com

Would you like to extend your study?

All participants can also register for the weekend workshop, Heart of the Brush, and with Kaz’s input continue studying Ryokan, working on their own project, or simply follow Kaz’s curriculum for Heart of the Brush.

Location: Zen Mountain Monastery Mt. Tremper, New York

Instructor: Kazuaki Tanahashi

The practice of calligraphy teaches us that anyone can be creative. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced calligrapher, any one of you can expand your creativity and enjoy making artwork. You can apply your creativity in your daily activity, whether you are a student, teacher, parent, scientist, or artist.

We will begin by exploring the 1700 year old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy as we look at ancient Chinese masterpieces. Then we will engage the heart of the learning and creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs in different styles. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice our own imperfections and inner criticisms that usually keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we will find ways to increase the degree of our enjoyment and serene excitement, which can be applied in everyday life. Using a variety of paper and brushes of different sizes, we will also experiment with artistic interpretation and expressionistic improvisation. No previous experience is needed. Kaz will bring brushes and paper.

• $350.00 – Program Price

• $315.00 – *Practicing Member Price

• $250.00 – **MRO Student Price

CONTACT:
ZMM Registrar
registrar@mro.org
(845) 688-2228

Please don’t let financial issues prevent you from attending a program at the Monastery. If you can’t afford the program fee, there are options. 

Location: Upaya Zen Center Santa Fe, NM
Instructor(s): Sensei Kaz Tanahashi

The practice of calligraphy teaches us that anyone can be creative. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced calligrapher, any one of you can expand your creativity and enjoy making artwork. You can apply your creativity in your daily activity, whether you are a student, teacher, parent, scientist, or artist.

We will begin by exploring the 1700 year old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy as we look at ancient Chinese masterpieces. Then we will engage the heart of the learning and creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs in different styles. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice our own imperfections and inner criticisms that usually keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we will find ways to increase the degree of our enjoyment and serene excitement, which can be applied in everyday life. Using a variety of paper and brushes of different sizes, we will also experiment with artistic interpretation and expressionistic improvisation. No previous experience is needed.

Kaz will bring brushes and paper. Kaz Tanahashi, born and trained in Japan, is an artist, writer, and peace worker, active in U.S.A. since 1977. As a painter and calligrapher, Kaz has had solo exhibitions of his brushwork, performed, and taught worldwide. He has created a genre of one-stroke paintings and multi-color Zen circles. As a calligrapher in East Asian style, he creates works of large single ideographs.

Maximum Participants: 35
Tuition (Members): $295.00
Tuition (Non-Members): $325.00
More details: Plus Lodging. Dana to teacher and residents. 

Lodging: Your tuition does not include lodging. Your first choice of lodging may not be available. Please check for availability by calling 505-986-8518 ext. 112 or email registrar@upaya.org.

If you wish to stay on the Upaya campus, the following options are available:

• Dorm $70 per night

• Double $95 per night

Location: Upaya Zen Center Santa Fe, NM

Instructor(s): Roshi Joan Halifax, PhD; Sensei Kaz Tanahashi; Natalie Goldberg; Clark Strand

Matsuo Bashō has inspired the world of Haiku for over 300 years. In l689, Bashō walked Japan’s Northern Interior, recording the essential and transient nature of what he encountered. This path was also a metaphoric trail into the strong desire to wander and the eternal question of human and divine. Like Bashō, we will bring his practice of awareness into our present day through walking, meditation, and haiku-writing.

いざさらば雪見にころぶ所迄 iza saraba / yukimi ni korobu / tokoromade
now then, let’s go out / to enjoy the snow … until / I slip and fall! [1688]

Bashō’s view of the world has reached far and wide—from Hiroshige’s prints in the late 1800s, to the Beat poets of the 1950s, to the online Haiku journals of today. Take the journey into the deep north with poets, Zen Buddhists, and writers to guide you: Natalie Goldberg, Sensei Kaz Tanahashi, Clark Strand, and Roshi Joan Halifax.

Required Reading:

In preparation for the retreat and in order to enrich our time at Upaya, please read Basho’s, The Narrow Road to the Deep North and Other Travel Sketches, by Matsuo Bashō and translated by Nobuyuki Yuasa, (Penguin Classic), a journal in the haibun style, linking prose and poetry.

Recommended Reading:

*Basho: The Complete Haiku by Matsuo Bashō (Author), Shiro Tsujimura (Illustrator), Jane Reichhold (Translator). It’s a hardcover, but there are used copies on line for the price of a paperback).

*Basho and his Interpreters: Selected Hokku with Commentary by Bashō Matsuo (Author), Makoto Ueda (Editor/Translator). It’s a hardcover, but there are used copies on line for the price of a paperback).

Maximum Participants: 70
Tuition (Members): $370.00
Tuition (Non-Members): $410.00
More details: Plus Lodging. Dana to teachers and residents. 

Lodging: Your tuition does not include lodging. Your first choice of lodging may not be available. Please check for availability by calling 505-986-8518 ext. 112 or email registrar@upaya.org.

If you wish to stay on the Upaya campus, the following options are available:

• Dorm $70 per night

• Double $95 per night

  
  

Location: Upaya Zen Center, Santa Fe, NM

ROHATSU: Authentic Practice

Instructor(s): Roshi Joan Halifax, PhD; Roshi Enkyo O'Hara; Sensei Kaz Tanahashi

Rohatsu Sesshin marks the enlightenment of the Buddha. It is a powerful gathering of practitioners and friends who are dedicated to realizing the way. Roshis Joan Halifax and Enkyo O’Hara, and Sensei Kaz Tanahashi explore the enlightenment of the Buddha, the story and its meaning in our lives today, during this powerful annual retreat.

The retreat is in silence, with sitting and walking meditation, eating formally as a community, daily dharma talks, private interviews with teachers, liturgy and samu. Sesshin provides a powerful container supporting the unification of body and mind, and our individuality with the community and the world. Roshi Joan Halifax is Abbot of Upaya Zen Center. Roshi Enkyo O’Hara is Abbot of Village Zendo, and Sensei Kaz Tanahashi is a Dogen Scholar.

Roshi Joan reviews applications. This is the only sesshin that Roshi leads during the year. In general, she prioritizes attendance for her students and those of Roshi Enkyo, as well as people who have experience with sitting longer sesshin in the past. We also ask that you are able to commit to sitting the entire sesshin with the community. We are not be able to accommodate late comers or those who wish to leave early.

*Special note about oryoki — in this tradition, all meals are vegan and gluten-free. We are unable to accommodate further dietary sensitivities. If your dietary sensitivities are outside of  vegan and gluten-free, we suggest you consider another retreat option.

Rohatsu sesshin is a wonderful experience, and it is also demanding in many ways. Thoughtfully consider before applying. We ask that you graciously understand if we are unable to accommodate your request to attend. If we cannot accept you at this time, please consider signing up for one of the other programs and sesshins that are offered at Upaya throughout the year.

LODGING FILLS QUICKLY. WE ENCOURAGE EARLY LODGING COMMITMENT.

Acceptance into Rohatsu is based on an application.

Click here to complete on-line Rohatsu application.

For information: www.upaya.org. upaya@upaya.org. (505) 986-8518.

The practice of calligraphy teaches us that anyone can be creative. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced calligrapher, any one of you can expand your creativity and enjoy making artwork. You can apply your creativity in your daily activity, whether you are a student, teacher, parent, scientist, or artist.

We will begin by exploring the 1700 year old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy as we look at ancient Chinese masterpieces. Then we will engage the heart of the learning and creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs in different styles. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice our own imperfections and inner criticisms that usually keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we will find ways to increase the degree of our enjoyment and serene excitement, which can be applied in everyday life. Using a variety of paper and brushes of different sizes, we will also experiment with artistic interpretation and expressionistic improvisation. No previous experience is needed.

For information: +43 699 14791212

The practice of calligraphy teaches us that anyone can be creative. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced calligrapher, any one of you can expand your creativity and enjoy making artwork. You can apply your creativity in your daily activity, whether you are a student, teacher, parent, scientist, or artist.

We will begin by exploring the 1700 year old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy as we look at ancient Chinese masterpieces. Then we will engage the heart of the learning and creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs in different styles. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice our own imperfections and inner criticisms that usually keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we will find ways to increase the degree of our enjoyment and serene excitement, which can be applied in everyday life. Using a variety of paper and brushes of different sizes, we will also experiment with artistic interpretation and expressionistic improvisation. No previous experience is needed.

Location: Ho Sen Dojo, Antwerp, Belgium

https://zenantwerpen.be/event/brush-mind-2/

For information: Luc De Winter, info@zenantwerpen.be  Telephone: +32 487 644 282

Clarifying the mind through exploring the foundations of Zen calligraphy and creative brushwork

In the first part of the workshop, we will explore the wisdom of 1,700-year-old East Asian calligraphy by examining ancient Chinese masterpieces, learning the ancient creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs of different styles. In second part, participants will experiment with artistic interpretations and expressionistic improvisations, using a variety of paper, ink, watercolor, and brushes of different sizes. No previous experience is needed. Brushes, paint, and paper are provided.

 Learning the basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork gives students the opportunity to observe the mind, noticing how inner criticisms can keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we learn to set aside our judging mind while increasing our enjoyment and serenity, a practice which can be applied in everyday life.

 Kazuaki Tanahashi (b. 1933) is a renowned Japanese artist, writer, and peace worker who work is acclaimed internationally in exhibitions, performances, retreats, and workshops. He is the author and translator of eighteen books on Zen Buddhism and Calligraphy, most recently Painting Peace: Art in a Time of Global Crisis and Heart of the Brush: The Splendor of East Asian Calligraphy, both published by Shambhala Publications. (www.brushmind.net)

 To register, email Antje Mac Lean at antje.maclean@t-online.de.

For more information in English, contact Petra Rheinwalt at rheinwalt@gmx.net.

Workshop Details:

 Please bring a paper weight (like a heavy stone) to keep paper from moving during calligraphy.

 Location: Seminarhaus S1516, Schönholzer Str. 16, 10115 Berlin-Mitte, www.s1516.de

 
Schedule:

Friday 2-6 pm Introduction and first exercises

Saturday 10 am – 6 pm Presentations and exercises

Sunday 10 am - 2 pm working with bigger brushes and final round

 
Cost: 190,00 EUR (reduction in special cases possible).

Languages: English, with translation into German on request.

According to legend, Emperor Wu wanted a calligraphy text for his son to study and asked Zhou Xing (470-521 CE), to cre. ate a 1000-character verse - with no character repeating - from the brushwork of Wang Xizhi, the Master of Chinese calligraphy. Zhi Yong (~580 CE), known as the Calligraphy Monk, later brushed 800 copies of Zhou’s 1000 Character text in side-by-side formal and cursive script and donated them to monasteries in his region. For centuries 1000 Characters was the basic literacy text in China, and Zhi Yong’s version was the most studied.

In this workshop Kaz will take us deeper into formal and cursive script through the study of Zhi Yong’s style. Workshop participants will have the option of closely studying Zhi Yong’s calligraphy, bringing their own calligraphy project to work on, or combining the two.

For information: www.petra-hinterthuer.de; qigong@petra-hinterhuer.de. Telephone: +49 40 856564

For information: www.petra-hinterthuer.de; qigong@petra-hinterhuer.de. Telephone: +49 40 856564

For information: www.petra-hinterthuer.de; qigong@petra-hinterhuer.de. Telephone: +49 40 856564

The practice of calligraphy teaches us that anyone can be creative. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced calligrapher, any one of you can expand your creativity and enjoy making artwork. You can apply your creativity in your daily activity, whether you are a student, teacher, parent, scientist, or artist.

We will begin by exploring the 1700 year old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy as we look at ancient Chinese masterpieces. Then we will engage the heart of the learning and creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs in different styles. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice our own imperfections and inner criticisms that usually keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we will find ways to increase the degree of our enjoyment and serene excitement, which can be applied in everyday life. Using a variety of paper and brushes of different sizes, we will also experiment with artistic interpretation and expressionistic improvisation. No previous experience is needed.

Location: European Academy, Akademie Sankelmark.  Schleswig-Holstein,

For information: www.eash.de.

The practice of calligraphy teaches us that anyone can be creative. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced calligrapher, any one of you can expand your creativity and enjoy making artwork. You can apply your creativity in your daily activity, whether you are a student, teacher, parent, scientist, or artist.

We will begin by exploring the 1700 year old wisdom of East Asian calligraphy as we look at ancient Chinese masterpieces. Then we will engage the heart of the learning and creative process by faithfully copying selected ideographs in different styles. While practicing basic aesthetics and techniques of brushwork, we will notice our own imperfections and inner criticisms that usually keep us from fully enjoying each moment. Step by step, we will find ways to increase the degree of our enjoyment and serene excitement, which can be applied in everyday life. Using a variety of paper and brushes of different sizes, we will also experiment with artistic interpretation and expressionistic improvisation. No previous experience is needed.

About Zen River Temple: Zen River is an international Buddhist monastery that is located in a beautiful property on the outskirts of Uithuizen, a small village on the northern edge of The Netherlands close to the Waddensea. It enjoys the spaciousness and tranquility of the countryside and yet is easily accessible by public transport.

For information: www.zenrivertemple.org. Telephone: +31 (0)595 – 435039.
Email: zenriver@zenrivertemple.org.

Become introduced to shodō, or the Way of the Brush, with master calligrapher, teacher, and Zen scholar, Kazuaki Tanahashi. 

No previous experience in meditation or brush work is necessary to join this workshop.

In this workshop you will learn the basic skills of brushwork as you practice copying ideograms from ancient Chinese masterpieces (the traditional way of studying brush calligraphy). You will also interpret these works and develop awareness in the moment while exploring how presence with the brush works in our heart, our mind, and our environs.

Kazuaki Tanahashi is a calligrapher, Zen scholar, and peace and environmental activist. He is a Fellow of the World Academy of Art and Science and has had solo exhibitions of his brushwork around the world. The author of many books, he is a renowned and treasured translator of Dōgen - the founder of Soto Zen.  Kaz’s complete, two-volume translation of Dōgen’s Treasury of the True Dharma Eye: Zen Master Dōgen's Shobo Genzo was published in 2011. His Heart of the Brush: The Splendor of East Asian Calligraphy, a guide to the study of calligraphy, was published in 2016. 

Kaz will also offer an advanced workshop on Zhi Yong’s One Thousand Characters Thursday, September 26th.  For this workshop you do not need to consider yourself advanced, but previous experience with the brush and the brush strokes is assumed. Students in the Zhi Yong workshop also have the option of continuing their study during the Heart of the Brush workshop.

Location: Madison, Wisconsin

For information: kaztanahashimadison@gmail.com

Kaz Tanahashi continues his annual Madison advanced workshop on Chinese master calligraphers with a study of Zhi Yong’s 1000 Characters.

According to legend, Emperor Wu wanted a calligraphy text for his son to study and asked Zhou Xing (470-521 CE), to cre. ate a 1000-character verse - with no character repeating - from the brushwork of Wang Xizhi, the Master of Chinese calligraphy. Zhi Yong (~580 CE), known as the Calligraphy Monk, later brushed 800 copies of Zhou’s 1000 Character text in side-by-side formal and cursive script and donated them to monasteries in his region. For centuries 1000 Characters was the basic literacy text in China, and Zhi Yong’s version was the most studied.

In this workshop Kaz will take us deeper into formal and cursive script through the study of Zhi Yong’s style. Workshop participants will have the option of closely studying Zhi Yong’s calligraphy, bringing their own calligraphy project to work on, or combining the two.

All participants can also register for the weekend workshop, Heart of the Brush, and during it continue, with Kaz’s input, working on their own project, studying Zhi Yong, or simply follow Kaz’s curriculum.

Location: Madison, Wisconsin
For information: kaztanahashimadison@gmail.com.