Portrait of Bodhidharma 1734 - 1766

Hakuin Ekaku created this portrait of Bodhidharma in Japan using ink on paper. The seeming simplicity of ink-wash painting belies its technical demands; the artist grinds an ink stick with water to achieve the desired consistency. Think of it as a material performance: the qualities of the ink directly influence the appearance of the work, determining the tone, texture, and depth of the monochrome palette. The controlled, yet spontaneous brushstrokes require the artist to consider form, balance, and the expressive potential of each mark, and how it captures the essence of Bodhidharma. Ekaku was a prolific artist and calligrapher, and his work often reflects his Zen Buddhist beliefs. Here, the economy of means speaks to the religious concept of wabi-sabi, which values simplicity and the acceptance of imperfection. Considering the deep connections between materials, making, and the philosophies that inform artistic production enriches our understanding of the artwork beyond conventional art historical interpretations.