Paul Laffoley Cambridge, MA, 1935-2015
Gates of Brahman the Cosmic Octave, 1971
Oil, acrylic, and hand applied vinyl letters on canvas
98 x 48 in.
249 x 122 cm.
249 x 122 cm.
$ 350,000.00
Symbol Evocation_ The Seven Chakras (or wheels) are centers of subtle energies, which are activated without physical motion. These energies are often called Prana or Kundalini. They exist within the...
Symbol Evocation_ The Seven Chakras (or wheels) are centers of subtle energies, which are activated without physical motion. These energies are often called Prana or Kundalini. They exist within the astral body of a person, and when activated they become the force structure of the mystical experience
Subject_ The Eternal Imperishable Absolute, the supreme Brahman is the dual reality of the Vedanta. It has no equivalent in the religions of dualism, all of which require a personal god. This state of Nirvana does not mean mere annihilation but rather entry into another mode of existence. This is the abode of immortality. It is only accessible by the Mystical Experience. In the East this is called Samadhi. At its highest level it is known as asaṃprajanya, where one’s personal karma is broken.
Subject_ The Eternal Imperishable Absolute, the supreme Brahman is the dual reality of the Vedanta. It has no equivalent in the religions of dualism, all of which require a personal god. This state of Nirvana does not mean mere annihilation but rather entry into another mode of existence. This is the abode of immortality. It is only accessible by the Mystical Experience. In the East this is called Samadhi. At its highest level it is known as asaṃprajanya, where one’s personal karma is broken.
Exhibitions
The Force Structure of the Mystical Experience. Kent Fine Art, New York. September 11 – November 7, 2015.As Above, So Below_ Portals, Visions, Spirits & Mystics curated by Rachel Thomas. Dublin_ the Irish Museum of Modern Art. April 13 – 27 August, 2017
Visionary New England curated by Sarah Montross. Lincoln_ deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum. Oct 8, 2020 thru March 14, 2021.
Systems of Belief curated by Cathrin Mayer. GRAZ_ Halle fur Kunst Steiermark. September 25, 2022 thru August 1, 2023
Literature
Laffoley, Paul with Richard Metzger and Douglas Walla. The Force Structure of the Mystical Experience. C. 2015. pp. 30-31 illus in color.Thomas, Rachael and Sam Thorne. As Above, So Below_ Portals.Visions.Spirits & Mystics. Dublin_ Irish Museum of Modern Art. C. 2017. Illus. in color p. 55