Life Survives by the Power of Life

teamLab, 2011, Digital Work, 6 min 23 sec. (loop), Calligraphy: Sisyu

Life Survives by the Power of Life

teamLab, 2011, Digital Work, 6 min 23 sec. (loop), Calligraphy: Sisyu

The blessings and threats of nature, as well as the blessings and threats of civilization, are continuous. There is no single source of absolute malice, nor can it all be dismissed idealistically. There are no simple answers, and at times it is difficult to process our emotions. Even so, we want to affirm life in all aspects. Life is beautiful.

teamLab has been working on the Spatial Calligraphy series since the collective formed. Spatial Calligraphy offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional Japanese sho (calligraphy) in an abstract space. It reconstructs Japanese sho in three-dimensional space and expresses the depth, speed, and power of the brushstroke. Butterflies, birds, animals, plants, and flowers appear from the calligraphy expressing the passing of the seasons. According to Zen Buddhist writing, “In all living things Buddha nature dwells.” All things are impermanent and the natural appearance of things is the Buddha nature. What we put into shape is that which we, the living, think is the heart of life.