As one walks the Noble Eightfold Path, Dukkha reduces step by step, whereby, wellness increases.

From Shawn O’Rourke

Art, Paintings, and Poetry

My art and poems are about reflection and self-realization. For me, creating is not about style, technique, or being accomplished. Creating is a communication method that brings what is within to the surface. Art and poetry give me the opportunity for understanding and personal growth. I present my creations here so that they may be helpful to others. For example, in the pencil drawing, ‘Hot under the Collar,’ we see that anger doesn’t only burn others, but burns ourselves as well. The pencil drawing, ‘Obsession,’ represents a strong and overwhelming desire that is like a snake strangling our heart. I hope you find my art and poems thought-provoking and insightful.

Learn More
Open (2015)Great Lakes Buddhist Vihara (Cropped)

“In the state of observation/seeing there is no duality, no identifying thoughts; there is just the calm state of awareness, spacious and peaceful.  This is the art of meditation, the Zen of seeing.”
-Bhante Kovida (The World is Myself – A Monk’s Travel Journal Part 1)

Paintings & Art

Blank Canvas Poems

Ensō Poems

“A trained mind brings much ease to one’s life.  One must learn to tame the mind as did great personages, like the Buddha.  One is able to organize one’s mind through one’s own effort.”
-Bhante Pinnagoda Rahula (The Nature of the Mind)