THE RHYTHM

OF NATURE

JOURNAL

In Chinese philosophy, there is this idea of “Dao.” It is believed to be the origin of all things. From kois, birds, butterflies, flowers, mountains, to us, humans. Everything in this phenomenal world comes from one, and corresponds to one another. As painters, we try to express this coordination, this flow of energy, with simple lines on calligraphy paper.

Painting provides an opportunity for me to reflect on this belief. I think at times today, this coordination can be overlooked. Humans think they can control nature, that they can exploit nature, that they can dominate nature. As a part of nature, part of this ecosystem, part of what constitutes this rhythm of energy—what really gives us this power?