This seminar studies a variety of art forms (painting, ceramics, tea ceremony, and garden) in the context of Zen Buddhism in China and Japan. We will investigate the Zen aesthetic ideals and religious meanings conveyed by these art forms. Special attention will be paid to the study of Zen painting from the twelfth century to the fifteenth century, the golden age of Zen painting in both countries. Issues of interest include, for example, the meanings and functions of Zen painting, iconography and its evolution, different patronage systems in China and Japan, and to what extent Japanese artists tried to break away from their Chinese counterparts, while working with highly derivative material, both thematically and artistically. Evaluation will be based on class participation, 3 oral presentations, and 1 final paper. Open to undergraduate students with permission of instructor.