Drink your tea slowly and reverently,
as if it is the axis
on which the world earth revolves-
slowly, evenly, without
rushing toward the future.
Live the actual moment.
Only this moment is life.
~Thich Nhat Hahn~
I searched a million (or so it seemed) poems on the internet to come up with something that sparked a painting. Here it is, a painting I did today just for Illustration Friday. I've titled it "Tea and Ginkos." The cup and saucer are very Wabi-Sabi. Who needs a perfect elipse?
inspiration and acrylic on canvas
Beautiful and peaceful!
ReplyDeleteGreat work! I love the colors and atmosphere!
ReplyDeleteIt's beautifull really.. the composition and natural elements work just fine!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and restful, captures the poem perfectly.
ReplyDeletevery lovely work, well done! i wonder if this poem comes from Japan's tea ceremony...
ReplyDeletevery nicely done
ReplyDeleteA nice reminder to take in all of the senses in life... stop and smell the roses
ReplyDeleteLovely poem, Laurel. I'm fascinated with the soothing quality of the illustration at the same time. The fabric of the tea linen opposed by the flowers, even more by their shadow. Delicious!
ReplyDeletePure beauty, I can feel the tranquility in the words and the painting! Very alluring, I shall replace my normal cup of coffee with a tea today! Great job!
ReplyDeletethis is a truely beautiful work of art ~ such peace, Jx
ReplyDeleteThe painting and the poem are wonderful - especially since I LOVE tea and all things Japanese! Awesome job. And I loved your "self discovery" posting. That was fab!
ReplyDeleteYou just did a painting today? Boy, you are fast. I like the peaceful feel. I want to jump into that teacup and rest.
ReplyDeleteLolo, I just awarded you with an Inspiration award. Go to my blog to pick up the award!
ReplyDeleteWhat a pleasant sight and poem--loev the softness and colors. This is an ideal morning for me, if only I could have more of these.
ReplyDeleteyour illustration is perfect for this poem. it sparked my mind. thank you.
ReplyDeleteTruly inspired! I can tell you really enjoyed painting this!!!
ReplyDeletewow. you've knocked my socks off on this one! bravo!
ReplyDeleteLaurel, this is a splendid! I love blue, tea, flowers and leaves. The placement of the tea cup and saucer give this substance and everything else brings peace. How appropriate you ended up with a poem by Thich Nhat Hahn ;)
ReplyDeleteBe well.
Beautifully done, lovely warm colors.
ReplyDeleteIts so serene and perfect for the tea setting. I need a cup of that!
ReplyDeleteLovely. It truly evokes a feeling of peace.
ReplyDeletebeautiful and zen!!
ReplyDeleteoh, this is so peacefull!
ReplyDeleteyou can smell the tea, and the flowers...
Oh, my. I love this one, and also the one below for Discovery-- two so different, and both so beautiful!
ReplyDeletelaurel, this is so very beautiful!
ReplyDeleteExcellent concept!! I love the mood. Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteI like to gulp my tea down and burn the roof of my mouth!! Now that's living. ;-)
ReplyDeletewhoa- how peaceful- and beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI love this poem, and it's not just the poem that's wabi-sabi, your painting is too! So simply beautiful and peaceful.
ReplyDeleteI like the mood of this piece you created. Very peaceful and nice.
ReplyDeleteYour work is amazing! Thanks for your kind post about my IF:Poem. I expect to visit your blog more often, since I love your style. I've put it on my list of faves -- and hope to see your future IF posts.
ReplyDeleteSo fine! My husband would love this one since tea is his main food staple. Well, he is from England y'know. I haven't been on the blog too much lately. I thank you for your wee (wine induced) comments a few days ago. :) I finally got around to sending my Motel Stationery to the contributor site. And have you drawn anything in your Moleskine yet?
ReplyDeleteRestful lovely.. quiet... I want tea!
ReplyDeletelooks like something you would see printed on silk.
so beautiful :)
ReplyDeleteTea-riffically poetic. Can almost smell the aroma(s)
ReplyDeleteHey Laurel, thanks for making me feel quiet and peaceful with this painting. It's a perfect match for the poem (whose philosophy I totally follow...nothing should screw up tea time). Love the sakura. And thanks so much for your comment on my blog. You made me blush a little.
ReplyDeleteOhhhhhh... oh oh oh. Lovely!
ReplyDelete(wanders off to put the kettle on)
So serene and peaceful. Gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful piece, Laurel, so poetic and dreamy..
ReplyDeleteHow nice it is to read a poem and see a piece of art. Beautiful. AS a poet I am touched that you find those words inspiring. Isn't that what art is supposed to do? I hope to gain some visibility for my poems and hopefully inspire people too.
ReplyDeleteHappy Friday.
David