“Zen is not something that can be understood at the surface level; it is something that needs to experienced and that has Become a part of me.”
-BodhiSelvam
Artist Bodhi Selvam, dedicated to Zen and meditation for nearly three decades, manifests his inner self through art, particularly Zen Buddha drawings. Influenced by Buddha and Lao Tzu, his works explore various themes, including the 7 kundalis, 7 hills, the full moon, and the Buddha’s journey in India. Guided by Buddha’s sutras, his art reflects detachment, the vastness of the sky, and the five elements of nature symbolized through flowers and birds.
A significant series delves into Buddha Tantra, a rarely explored aspect, influenced by Buddha’s son. Bodhi Selvam, akin to Buddha’s spiritual journey, is self-taught and finds inspiration in meditation, capturing the essence of Buddha’s enlightenment in his paintings. His works, seemingly simple, harbor a reservoir of artistic skill, enlightened thoughts, and profound insights.
Journalist V. Marriappan and art critic Maharadhi commend Bodhi Selvam’s unique portrayal of Buddha, emphasizing the transformative ‘sambodhi’ moment. His paintings, distinct from traditional depictions, depict Buddha’s head with plants, conveying the magic moment of enlightenment. Bodhi Selvam’s self-made painting style, drawing inspiration from Buddha in meditation, reflects a profound connection with nature.
Art critic Lakshmi Venkatraman explores Bodhi Selvam’s intricate pen and ink drawings, revealing weeks of dedicated work. The drawings, symmetrical and detailed, focus on a central silhouette representing the essence of life. Selvam’s artistic journey, from a young boy’s communion with nature to his exploration of philosophies, reflects his pursuit of the elusive something. The current series symbolizes the search for this elusive core, inviting viewers to appreciate the visuals without deciphering their meaning.
In a narrative by Bodhi Selvam, he shares a sixteen-month experience by a lake, observing the cyclical transformations of life around it, influenced by the sun, moon, and seasons. The lake becomes a metaphor for the interconnectedness of nature and the artist’s journey, culminating in the Bodhi Mandala expressing his deep connection with nature and self-realization.