The Dharma Art teachings of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche are not just about making “art”. They are also about how we are creating ourselves each moment, the artistry of life itself, how we create our environments, and how we communicate and express ourselves to others.

Usually art is considered as something extra or special in our lives which is created by people who are especially talented, but according to Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche’s teachings, art is something vital which everyone has the potential to actualize. It is vital because how we perceive the world affects everything we do and say. It concerns our belief systems and our conception of reality all together. From that point of view, art is a way of seeing and being and can become a path of awakening to our highest potential.

“Practice any art . . . no matter how well or badly, not to get money and fame, but to experience becoming, to find out what’s inside you, to make your soul grow.”

— Kurt Vonnegut

Connecting Dharma and Art is a spiritual path of personal evolution. It is spiritual in the sense that we are recognizing the sacredness and preciousness of human existence and the amazing potential of artistic expression. These teachings about the source of creativity show us how we can relate to ourselves and our world with clarity,
discipline, and playfulness.

Five-Part Dharma Art Curriculum

1. Coming to Your Senses
2. Seeing Things As They Are
3. The Creative Process
4. The Power of Display
5. Art in Everyday Life

Suggested reading for the program: “True Perception, the Path of Dharma Art” by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche.

The program combines Dharma Art teachings with meditation practice and contemplative exercises, working alone and in collaboration, using brush work, movement, object arranging, voice, and writing among other modes. Within the beautiful and peaceful environment of Dechen Chöling, we will be supported and nourished by nature, good food, and community. This Five-Part Intensive program will culminate in a celebratory graduation and pinning ceremony.

Open to everyone, no previous experience in the arts or meditation is required. We also welcome all Dharma Art practitioners, students and teachers who want to practice and enrich this community!

Practical information

Arrival day (Monday April 7): You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6:30 pm. Intro talk at 8 pm. 
End of programme (Saturday 12 April): Closing circle and banquet in the evening.
Departure day (Sunday 13 April): You may leave anytime (no programme). You’re welcome to stay for breakfast.

This program is taught in English with translation into French and Spanish (please indicate your request for translation on the registration page). 

For Spanish participants, there is a ride-sharing option. If you are interested, please mention it in the “comment” field when you register.