Arts at Aryaloka

Appreciation and practice of the arts is seen within the Triratna Buddhist Community as an important means of engaging the emotions in the spiritual life and of making a bridge between traditional Buddhism and Western culture. Many of our sangha members make their living in the arts or have a strong creative talent. The arts bring richness and depth to our community and a personal connection with our own practice.

Aryaloka offers many opportunities to engage in creative pursuits through classes, retreats and workshops. We also have frequent arts events – musical performances, art showings, and more – through our Arts at Aryaloka programming. Arts events are open to all and always promise to be lively and elevating.

Upcoming and Previous Arts Events:

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Poetry Group – June

Date: June 17, 2012
Times: 4-6 p.m.


Writing Come join others in the sangha for an ongoing monthly poetry group at Aryaloka. Read what you’ve written, what you’ve been struck by that someone else has written, or just listen.  These evenings are free – donations toward the maintenance of Aryaloka are appreciated.

“I’m not writing just for myself. I’m writing to give myself, and hopefully others, pleasure (niramisa – non-appropriative pleasure). I want to participate in that strange magic of poetry – its capacity to enhance life, mature self-awareness, and suspend the ruminations of mind (prapanca).”   Maitreyabandhu


Led by: Joan Rochette et al.
Times: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Venue: Aryaloka
Registration: No registration necessary
Fee: Donations appreciated
Level: Open to All
Directions: Directions Page

Poetry Group – May

Date: May 27, 2012
Times: 4-6 p.m.


Writing Come join others in the sangha for an ongoing monthly poetry group at Aryaloka. Read what you’ve written, what you’ve been struck by that someone else has written, or just listen.  These evenings are free – donations toward the maintenance of Aryaloka are appreciated.

“I’m not writing just for myself. I’m writing to give myself, and hopefully others, pleasure (niramisa – non-appropriative pleasure). I want to participate in that strange magic of poetry – its capacity to enhance life, mature self-awareness, and suspend the ruminations of mind (prapanca).”   Maitreyabandhu


Led by: Joan Rochette et al.
Times: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Venue: Aryaloka
Registration: No registration necessary
Fee: Donations appreciated
Other dates: 6/17
Level: Open to All
Directions: Directions Page

Shodo: The Way of the Brush – Arts Day

Start Date: Sunday, June 3, 2012
End Date: Sunday, June 3, 2012

Register for this Event


Shodo Brush Art For those of you who missed our wonderful ink day last July and for those who want more time with brush, ink, and paper, do come. Dh. Kiranada will lead us through a variety of meditations to quiet ourselves and some exercises to draw Japanese “kanji” ideograms.  These activities will take us into observation and awareness as we embody the brush, let the black ink flow, and reflect our true state of mind. No “talent” needed. The workshop begins at 10:00 – come at 9:45 for tea.


At Aryaloka, we strive to make our programs available to everyone regardless of their financial circumstances. Our fee structure allows you to pay according to your means. The Sustaining price is for people comfortably paying their rent or mortgage, and who can afford the occasional meal out and movie. The Sustaining price level also helps Aryaloka offer lower prices to those who could otherwise not afford to attend. Any payment above this price is a tax-deductible donation. Mid-Level prices are for those who have a regular income and are paying their mortgage or rent. Prices at this level contribute to the range of Aryaloka’s operating costs. The Base-Level price is for those without an income or with an income low enough that making ends meet is a challenge. Those whose circumstances are not included above can call the office to arrange alternate pricing.

Led by: Dh. Kiranada
Times: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Venue: Aryaloka
Registration: Registration Page
Fee: $72/60/48

Level: Open to All
Directions: Directions Page