The importance of a clean mind
A recent trip to try and catch the last weekend of the Ann Veronica Janssens' immersive coloured smoke filled artwork at London’s Wellcome Collection ended in failure, after being told that the work was booked up now for the entire day - a common problem that seems to be occurring on London’s over subscribed art scene.
I primarily went as I find these types of artworks a piece of sensorial escapism from busy London into a magical environment, devoid of time and space. Artworks of this type have been very popular at galleries like the Hayward with exhibitions such as Carsten Holler, Walking in My Mind and Ernesto Neto. Their popularity evident in the 40 minute queues to access certain pieces.
After being told the Ann Veronica Janssens work was fully booked I ended up seeing the Tibet’s Secret Temple exhibition instead - a completely different show exploring Tibetan Buddhist yogic and meditational practice.
The exhibition brings together mural images and historical objects that uncover these once secret practices and their relevance, centuries later to today’s life.
A video piece showed a monk sharing his comparison about how the West has this obsession with outward cleanliness. How we are obsessed with making sure our exterior appearance is as clean as it can be - we shower everyday, we spend vast amounts of money on creams and sprays and clean clothes with the idea that a clean outer appearance is a sign of healthiness and happiness.
For Tibetan monks, it’s the opposite. They are obsessed with a clean mind. From the earliest ages they learn the mantras and how to meditate, practice yoga and bring their body and mind into balance. Starting from an early age gives them a lifelong set of mind practices to guide them through life. A traditional Monk takes but one shower all his life - and that is taken in death.
‘Mindfulness’ seems to be a real buzz word at the moment and I cant help but see how it’s going to become more and more relevant in today’s digitised, fast paced and nosiey world. Through meditation, yoga, a walk in the outdoors, or whatever gives you a sense of solitary time with one’s self, I would suggest starting 2016 with a clean mind.
