ABSTRACT
This chapter describes intrapersonal and interpersonal approaches to art therapy originating from Hindu-Yoga-Tantra and Buddhist traditions. Specifically, contemplative perspectives will be addressed within a karma yoga, socially engaged model of community-based studio work. Spiritual bypassing is the premature claim of adept transcendent accomplishment. Gentle inner confrontation of spiritual materialism and spiritual promiscuity is necessary in order to mindfully challenge rather than sidestep personal spiritual work, especially in psychotherapy. Deliberate attention to this everyday sacredness fostered sensitivity to the intrinsic fertility alive in any activity. Observant attunement, when moved into contemplative action, represents qualities of Dharma Art. According to Advaita Vedanta, intrinsic suffering stems from dualistic perception. Unlike an inner self-structure built of ego-based identifications, Vedanta teaches that Sat-Chit-Ananda is our innermost conscious state. The guiding vision behind the Naropa Community Art Studio (NCAS) project is to provides a space for diverse groups to gather and create art together.
