The Convergence of Creativity and Cultivation

【A Dialogue Between Director Ang Lee and Venerable Guo Huei, Abbot President of Dharma Drum Mountain】 What kind of landscape of life emerges when art meets religion? How does a life of creativity and cultivation evolve from a first thought to an enduring vow? In December 2025, internationally renowned director Ang Lee and Venerable Guo Huei engaged in a sincere dialogue on the theme of “Returning to the Original Aspiration,” embarking on a journey to explore the essence of life. Ang Lee believes that filmmaking is akin to spiritual practice—an ongoing and unending exploration of life. Venerable Guo Huei interprets spiritual practice as the “creation of the mind,” suggesting that art and Dharma, though seemingly distinct paths, both involve breaking through self-imposed limitations and illuminating one’s true nature. The Venerable humorously refers to Ang Lee as “a Chan master sidetracked by directing.” Through their sincere and warm exchange, the two shared how they have preserved their original aspirations over the years and refined them into enduring, powerful vows. We invite you to join this dialogue that transcends cinema and Chan. Through the life stories of two wise figures, we may see how our original aspiration can guide us and rediscover our own direction in life. ＊Audio: CH / Sub: EN ＊中文版    • 看見初心   #chan #AngLee #VenerableGuoHuei #果暉法師