Sokuzan

Question: Are we supposed to focus on making the drawing look perfect?

 

**Sokuzan:**

No, perfection isn't the point. The goal is to observe deeply, to become aware of the shapes, angles, and proportions, but more importantly, the experience of observing itself. You’re drawing, but you’re also observing how you react to what you're drawing.

 

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Question: How does this relate to mindfulness practice?

 

**Sokuzan:**

Mindfulness is about being fully present in whatever you’re doing. When you draw a figure, you’re not just focused on the figure; you’re aware of your thoughts, your breath, and any distractions that arise. The practice is to stay present with the act of drawing, without judgment.

 

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Question: What if I get frustrated with how my drawing turns out?

 

**Sokuzan:**

Frustration is a part of the process. Just like in meditation, if frustration arises, it’s an opportunity to observe it. Notice the feeling, but don’t get caught up in it. It’s not about how well you draw, but how you respond to the experience.

 

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Question: Should we try to capture the figure exactly as we see it, or is there room for interpretation?

 

**Sokuzan:**

There’s definitely room for interpretation, but the key is to be true to your perception in the moment. Don’t get stuck in trying to recreate the figure as a photograph; instead, notice how it feels to observe the figure and translate that into your drawing.

 

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Question: Can you explain how awareness practice in drawing differs from just regular drawing?

 

**Sokuzan:**

Regular drawing might focus more on the end result—the picture you create. Awareness practice, however, focuses on the process itself. The goal is to be mindful of your attention, your thoughts, and your emotions as you draw. It’s less about achieving a result and more about cultivating presence through the act of creating.

 

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Question: What’s the best way to bring our awareness back if we start to lose focus during the drawing?

 

**Sokuzan:**

You can gently return your attention to the sensation of drawing—the motion of your hand, the pressure on the paper, the marks you’re making. Another method is to bring awareness to your breath. If your mind wanders, simply notice it without judgment and return your focus to the task at hand.

 

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Question: Is there a particular technique we should use to draw that helps with this practice?

 

**Sokuzan:**

Techniques like contour drawing, where you draw the outline of a figure without looking at the paper, can help you focus more on the figure and less on the result. However, the real technique is the ability to stay present, whether you’re doing a detailed sketch or a loose gesture. It’s about being mindful of your experience while drawing.

 

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Question: Does it matter if we draw fast or slow?

 

**Sokuzan:**

It’s not about speed, but awareness. If you draw quickly, are you still aware? If you draw slowly, are you still present? The speed is less important than whether your attention is engaged in the present moment, no matter how fast or slow the process is.

 

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Question: What if I start to feel disconnected from the practice? How do I reconnect?

 

**Sokuzan:**

When you feel disconnected, it’s important to pause and acknowledge it. Sometimes, just stepping back and observing the drawing from a distance can help. You can also check in with your body—are you tense? Are you relaxed? Reconnect by focusing on your breath or by revisiting the initial motivation for the practice: to be aware.