Daoism and Art Is Topic for Tonight's Art Department Lecture Series

Donald Davis, associate professor of psychology at Old Dominion University, will present a lecture on "Daoism, Art and the Art of Life" at 7 p.m. tonight at the Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries, as part of the art department's Visiting Scholar Lecture Series.

Daoism (Taoism) is the indigenous wisdom tradition of China that has been practiced for more than 2,500 years. It has influenced the development of many Chinese arts, such as painting, calligraphy, poetry, garden design, cooking, feng shui, traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, and tai chi. Davis' lecture will discuss the influence of Daoism on the Chinese arts, with special focus on painting, poetry and garden design, as well as use of Daoist principles and practices to cultivate balance, harmony and contentment in one's life.

Davis also is a faculty member of ODU's Institute of Asian Studies. He is an award-winning teacher, researcher and consultant who has lectured extensively throughout Asia, Europe and North America, including serving as a Fulbright Professor at Wuhan University in China. He has practiced and taught Daoist arts for more than 25 years. Davis serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Daoist Studies and is a co-founder and member of the board of directors of Legacy of Dao, an international, nonprofit foundation organized to spread the ancient wisdom of Daoism in the modern world.

The Gordon Galleries are located at 4509 Monarch Way at 45th Street. Parking is available in Garage D, behind the galleries. The lecture is free and open to the public.

Davis also will present a related workshop on Monday, March 2, titled "Daoist Energy Cultivation Practices." The goal of the workshop is to foster openness and spontaneity in the creation and appreciation of art. No previous experience is required, although attendance at the lecture on Thursday is a prerequisite for participation in the workshop. The workshop, from 6-9 p.m., will be held in room 216 of the Visual Arts Building, located on 49th Street. Parking is available in the 49th Street garage (Garage E).

For more information, call the art department 683-4047 or e-mail Agnieszka Whelan at awhelan@odu.edu.