Literary Nonfiction. Art. Expressing the freshness of each moment as it arises, THE ARTE OF NOW: PRACTICE OF IMMEDIACY IN THE ARTS(R) (PIA) is a technique that allows life to guide you in creating art. As opposed to operating from a conceptual place, discover how the boundless space of now offers everything needed to create dynamic and intimate works of art. This book is filled with practical advice and numerous examples of the practice in play. There is no need to wait for inspiration or to endure creative blocks: it's all right here, right now "Why are we so afraid to paint on a blank surface? Because it elicits so many uncertain emotions of success, failure and potential rejection. But as young children we never gave painting a second thought because we did not label our lack of knowing as good or bad; rather, our uncertainty was an adventure. In THE ARTE OF NOW: PRACTICE OF IMMEDIACY IN THE ARTS(R) (PIA), Nicolee McMahon has provided a wonderfully pragmatic way to rediscover our inner childlike, non-judgmental artist/explorer selves by fusing Zen 'nowness' teachings with the basics of art. Whichever art field you are in, whether an amateur or a professional, this book will help you work more freely and effectively." --Ken Goldman "Nicolee McMahon offers us a mature integration and mastery of spiritual practice and creative expression. Grounded in years of Zen practice, she presents a simple yet dynamic approach to unleashing creativity by accessing openness, not leaving anything out, and living in the moment. PIA will appeal to a broad range of people, from novices curious about their own creativity to those already adept at creative expression." --Wendy Egyoku Nakao Roshi