“Doesn’t this painting depict two opposite shores of the sea — dark and sombre on the far side, contrasted sharply by warmly hued floral fields on the other? In this work, the stiff, solid stones in dark blue are highly incompatible, yet display a rhythmic harmony. This image reflects our habits, which originate from knowledge, endless concepts and debates. We have had enough of this rigid, frigid world!”


~ Lin Tsang-Yuh
The Unique Ching Hai Aesthetics


Supreme Master Ching Hai’s paintings create an impression of lightness, freedom and beauty. Take a few moments to appreciate Her works, and you will observe that behind Her simple brushstrokes, colors and composition is the rhythm of inner vibration, the perception of a soul full of radiant, pristine power.

Painters use their talents to express their emotions, thoughts and reasoning, and it is natural that they be trained to develop their techniques to their full potential; however Master Ching Hai never received such training. Her command of artistic technique comes instead through meditation, and Her inspirations originate from God. She believes that each person is a self-accomplished enlightened Master and Buddha, and of course, She is no exception.

The Supreme Master doesn’t need recognition or praise from the world. Using concise words and an ever-changing appearance, She raises questions about our concepts, patience and cognitive ability. Her freedom seems overwhelming to us, or have our mental constraints thrown us into decadence? Are our habitual values and opinions the only assets of our human form? Are we having difficulty shaking off habits accumulated life after life? To what extent have we assimilated the wonders of the common sense and knowledge that we have been seeking and disseminating? Day after day, in our quest for worldly knowledge and possessions, we have exhausted our energy. Can occasional contentment and complacence erase the fact that we are lacking?

Before Master Ching Hai’s paintings, I feel ashamed at the limits of my descriptive powers. However, this is precisely why I love and am touched by Her art. Ching Hai leads us into Her works with a simple, focused vision. Though limited by our worldliness, we are awe-struck each time we appreciate Her paintings, as we share the freedom of a wise sage, the charm and profundity of a poet, and the astuteness and freedom of a nomad. Sometimes we are so deeply touched by the intense passion, childlike innocence and motherly love of the liberated One that we can scarcely be ourselves.

Profile of the Author, Lin Tsang-Yuh:
Born in Tainan, Formosa, Mr. Lin won first prize in the Asian Youth Literary Awards at age twenty. He has also received many other awards for his creative work, ranging from novels and photography to television scripts and directing.