Jizo Bodhisattva: Crafting in Clay – workshop (in person)

Saturday, April 12, 2025
9:00 am-10:30 am
Middlebury Studio School
2377 Route 7 South, Middlebury, VT 05753

Jizo Bodhisattva

In Japanese Zen Buddhist traditions, Jizo is a beloved bodhisattva, cherished for his/her role as a protector of children, travelers, and the souls of the departed. Often depicted as a child-like monk with a gentle smile, simple robes, and a shaved head, Jizo is sometimes seen wearing a red bib or skullcap. These small, peaceful statues can be found all around Japan—along country roads, in bustling cities, at neighborhood crossroads, in cemeteries, and near temples.

We invite you to join us for a 90-minute arts workshop where we’ll come together to create our own Jizo statues from stoneware clay. Under the kind guidance of clay artist Kathy Clarke, you’ll have the chance to craft your very own Jizo. Peg Kendo Murray, sensei, will share some of the rich history and teachings surrounding this revered figure, and offer prayers, songs, mantras, and ideas for creating your own personal Jizo rituals.

Special Note:

As part of this workshop, we ask that, in addition to creating your own Jizo, you also craft an extra one. This second statue will be carried to Ireland, where it will be part of a sacred ceremony honoring the memory of the many children and unwed mothers who tragically lost their lives in Irish mother and baby homes throughout the 20th century. Kendo will take these figurines to a Zen Peacemaker-style Bearing Witness retreat in Ireland in late May 2025.

Cost:

A donation (partly tax deductible) in the amount of $45-$65 is suggested to cover the costs of studio rental, clay, firing, and our skilled Artist-guide, Kathy Clarke.

Limited to 12 participants!

Registration:

please fill out this form.

Dana:

A note about the practice of generosity (dana):
Bread Loaf Mountain Zen Community is supported solely by financial donations. The suggested amount helps to offset the actual costs of the program, but any contribution amount – less or more according to your means – is always gratefully received. Your gift makes programs and practice opportunities financially possible for all.