0.5 - ZEN AND THE ART

Taoist Mountain Xeriscape 

We wanted to create some mythic support systems for the 'Temple Gardens' design concept. So we began exploring how 
we could integrate concepts of zen gardening and taoist practice into the spaces surrouding and within our octagonal art 
gallery. The gallery had 8 tents all arranged so that the front two corners of the tents were touching. 

Xeriscaping is a form of 'drought resistant gardening'. It involves using mulches, rocks and other structures that hold 
water, prevent evaporation, and create microclimates that are freindlier than in the spaces around the design area. It also 
focuses on native plants as well as plants that tolerate conditions where there is very little water. 

We started by clearing and levelling the land. We chose three triangle areas on the outside of the gallery to start. 

Using sand, rocks and leftover bamboo shards we build some open templates. 

After we put up bamboo against the white canvas tent sides we began to integrate the plants that had 
been donated, the plants we had brought for the project and the remaining random elements that we had 
for potential use. 

The first third was a reflection of Lev and Jenny's visions and included Agave and Aloe Vera. 

This included another of the Xavi signs 

The second third was developed out of Xavi's vision to include rocks, wood, bamboo, dead palm fronds and other found materials. 

The third shap was designed by Crystal and Spore as an interactive ritual shamans and allies gaming board. 
During the following game different narratives emerged along the Taoist pathways of this ritual training ground. 
Here is the set up with a few of the initial peaces, this was the first move in the game that ensued. 

Before the player character peaces began to show up, here is what the gameboard had evolved into by the 13th move. 
Sticker art was used from Higher Glyphiks which were developed by Xavi 
and there were also Stickers from ElfTrance which were developed by Matt. 

Things seemed to begin at an industrialized, material civilization garbage world. 

Some of the protagonists followed the crystal path away from the ravaged world. 

The path crossed an elvish bridge of destiny. 

Eventually the crystal path lead to a new kingdom of free spirits. 

The peak of the gaming board was a fabled San Pedro landscape mountain temple.