How Zen Catalyzed Conceptual Art: A Review of Ellen Pearlman's Nothing and Everything: The Influence of Buddhism on the American Avant Garde

MOST EVERYONE IN THE ARTS AND AMERICAN BUDDHIST scene knows that the Beat generation provided a great impetus to the development of Buddhism in the West, especially America. Ellen Pearlman's newest book. Nothing and Everything: The Influence of Buddhism on the American Avant Garde sheds light on the unique manifestations of Buddhism on avant garde music, theater and literature. 

Recently,  a review that "get's it" appeared which takes a step further and shows how Zen Buddhism, in particular,  influenced the development of conceptual art. 

To read the entire interview, visit here.  

Ellen Pearlman’s Nothing and Everything: The Influence of Buddhism on the American Avant Garde (2012) is available from Evolver Editions for $21.95 or $15.95 ebook. Her previous books include, Tibetan Sacred Dance (Inner Traditions, 2002). She recently visited Tsegyalgar East for her annual retreat. She spends part of each year in China where she has many friends in the Dzogchen Community.You can view her award winning blog here. 

Ellen writes extensively on the arts in China, Mongolia and Tibet. To read her recent article on Contemporary Tibetan Painting, click here.