Celestial Art

by Ching Hai

Some say that children are artists and environmentalists, because right from birth they are inclined to the bright and beautiful, they care spontaneously for nature and befriend animals and insects. That took place in not so distant a past; nevertheless, we have gradually forgotten our Real Self while immersing ourselves in the existence of humans in a busy world. All this while, we have estranged ourselves far from the artist dwelling within our hearts. Celestial Art leads you into a magical realm bringing you to celebrate a complete return to the innocence of childhood as well as enjoy the brilliance of Truth, Compassion and Beauty. In that sphere you are to experience exquisite ideas and marvellous designs sparkling with life wisdom while integrating perfectly to exalt harmony with nature and environment. The translucent Heavenly Flowers glide with the glittering current... The painted pebbles and fans reflect the beauty of purity with a liveliness and fun so common to children. Made of bamboo and wood, the Longevity Lamps bask in glorious simplicity. The golden touch has made the Celestial Jewellery radiate in Ancient Beauty and Spring Your Soul . As if the Goddess of The Rainbow had descended upon Earth, in their splendour Celestial Clothes magnify heavenly glamour. Amazingly, this brilliant and versatile artist has not received any academic training. The author said humbly that she didn't know how to create artwork before engaging in spiritual practice and obtaining enlightenment. She has consequently credited all inspiration to the Heaven; hence the title of this collection Celestial Art . Having mastered the art of coexisting harmoniously with all forms of existence she experienced, she exemplifies the very principle of Oneness and Return to Innocence, the optimal life-style advocated by ancient sages and modern saints alike. Through such life-style, she attains this very state of utmost freedom (Within and Without) and ideal expression all artists constantly yearn for. Furthermore, these days of our lives particularly call for us lead an existence of harmony and balance with the environment, all beings, one s mind, body and soul, Supreme Master Ching Hai has emphasized a model proven to bring sound solutions to current environmental crisis. Following her example we can truly regain Eden. The Ashram at Hsihu is in itself a wondrous art creation that speaks for such harmonious world. Supreme Master Ching Hai and her disciples developed the unwanted barren hill into the paradise of today filled with fragrant flowers and singing birds All structures exist in total accordance to the contour and geographic characteristics of the hill they were constructed on. Such perfect communion with nature enriches the Ashram with a touch of enchantment and enhanced beauty. These endeavours also expose the developer's deep respect and care of nature. While strolling on a winding path, allow yourself to be charmed by the birds and their songs echoing in the lush mountain. Stunning sceneries succeed one another. Landscape architects and environmental professionals marvel at these amazing experience and applaud this heavenly design. Its author has achieved harmony between man and nature.

295 pages, Hardcover

Published November 30, 2008

About the author

The Supreme Master (or "Suma") Ching Hai, (born 12 May 1950), is the spiritual teacher of the Quan Yin Method with an estimated 20,000 followers world wide.
Ching Hai is a poet, painter, musician, self-published writer and entrepreneur who heads the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, a business group with worldwide interests in restaurants, fashion and jewelry design. She is known for her philanthropic and humanitarian work.

(source: en.wikipedia.org)

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 1 out of 5]

“The Supreme Master Ching Hai” is the charismatic leader of her own New Religious Movement and head of an affiliated chain of vegan restaurants. This book documents her attempts in the artistic field, particularly as a painter and fashion designer. Neutral observers may notice that unfortunately, Mrs. Ching Hai has not enough artistic talent, which is made evident by the fact that in most of the photographs of her paintings and drawings, a large photo of her is placed IN FRONT OF the work (and not next to it) in order to partially hide the artist's own creation. This book will leave you dissatisfied if you’re an art lover, as the real "star" of the book is Ching Hai herself, not her artwork. However, in case you are interested in NRMs or if you just want to admire Ching Hai's amazing wardrobe and hairstyle choices (both Asian and Western), this book is the perfect read for you.