Chinese Poem: “There is a bamboo grove around my house” 1800 - 1831

Ryōkan Taigu created this hanging scroll, “Chinese Poem: There is a bamboo grove around my house,” using ink on paper. Notice how the paper support, with its inherent absorbency, is crucial to the artwork's impact. Ryōkan skillfully uses a brush to explore ink's variable density, creating nuanced calligraphic forms. The characters range from dark, bold strokes to light, almost ethereal touches, guided by controlled, rhythmic movements. The way he loads the brush with ink and then applies it to the paper contributes to the expressive range. This is more than just writing; it's a performance captured in material form, deeply rooted in the Zen tradition. Ryōkan was a Buddhist monk known for his simple life, reflected in his choice of basic materials. Unlike many contemporary artists who sought luxury materials, he favored humble means, underscoring a life of asceticism and reflection. His work is a testament to the idea that profound expression doesn't require elaborate resources, but rather a deep engagement with the immediate world.