The Gateless Gate Studio originally began as a personal reflection on a compilation of Zen koans referred to as the Mumonkan or the Gateless Gate. In 2010, a series of events instigated the idea of completing a drawing for each of Mumonkan’s 48 Zen cases. It was a process that led me through many experiments and has most recently brought me to the artwork you find here. The time with the koans has also broadened my interest in other aspects of Japanese religion and folklore, which you’ll also see reflected in the work I share.

The Gateless Gate was compiled in early 13th century China by Mumon Ekai, and the stories remain a central theme to Zen training to this present day. The stories of the Mumonkan are mostly a mystery to me, especially regarding the role they play in the meditative inquiry. My artwork plays literally with the koan stories, often conveying the primary dilemma or question. Although enlightenment alludes me, the art-making process has provided a wonderful sense of familiarity with the koans. The Mumonkan is a book filled with the joy and agony of many wayward and enlightened characters. I have found them a beautiful collection of entanglements that has only grown richer through the time spent envisioning them on paper.

Thank you, Mark T. Morse