When visiting the magnificent spiritually enlightening Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, a peaceful tranquillity embraces.
Even though it’s surrounded by Flat Bush’s bustling suburbia, once inside the beautiful grounds and wandering through the temple and connecting buildings, a calming quiet descends.
The fragrance of delicious vegetarian food in the air. Feel the serenity.
Therefore, it was with pleasant surprise that elegant classical music was booming out of speakers across the imposing courtyard as an elegant party mood welcomed the start of the temple’s yearly grandiose art exhibition.
The Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple’s eighth Art Salon opened last week with a stylish celebration of the largest public display of high-quality artworks annually in east Auckland.
It was an extra special occasion at the gala, supported by a large number of invited guests, notaries and arts enthusiasts.
The Head Abbot of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order and Monastery, the Most Venerable Hsin Bau, was in attendance.
Draped in traditional and comfortable orange robes, his message was friendly and dignified: Art is good for one’s soul, contributing to “life happiness”.
“Our culture is to propagate Buddhism. Therefore, we aim to spread the culture of Buddhism by wishing everyone growth by seeing this exhibition.”
He spoke of how art can bring “kindness and beauty” and wished everyone “can go feeling enriched after seeing the artworks”.
“Accept this expression, a connection with the heart.”
It was a precise and energised choreographed event, acknowledgement also of where the Art Salon has come in eight years.
Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery curator, Venerable Abbess Manshin, says works by 32 local artists went on display in the beginning.
“The number of applications has grown significantly, with more than 200 submissions received this year.”
The Art Salon exhibition has in total 668 pieces from 220 entries by 179 artists.
“Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple provides a beautiful space for local artists to showcase their unique creations,” says Venerable Abbess Manshin.
“Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery serves as a platform for local artists to exhibit their creativity and talent to the public, bringing colour to the world and our hearts.
“I hope more visitors will be inspired by the gallery and express their experiences and emotions through art.”
There are more than 10 “different types” this year, including paintings, ceramics sculptures, photography, textile, mosaic and glass.
The Howick Photography Society has also contributed digital pictures by 25 photographers.
The main exhibition until November 30 presents works by 129 artists, and 50 others have their creations displaying at the Summer Art Salon in January.
Awards were also presented for Loyalty – artists who have participated since year one; Excellence in Live Demonstration – artists who enrich the community through their art; and Popularity – artists who bring joy and inspiration to the audience.
The Art Salon “aims to foster harmony through art in Aotearoa New Zealand”, says Venerable Abbess Manchin, and on a beautiful spring afternoon in Flat Bush it was unanimously agreed by all attendees that was achieved.
Delivered with the most sincere, happy and generous hospitality. Art, indeed, is in the eye of the beholder.
