Golden Kagyu Garland

This Golden Rosary surrounding Tibetan calligraphy, represents the continuous oral transmission of Mahamudra. Passed on from the time of the historical Buddha until now, through an unbroken line of masters to disciples known as the Kagyu Lineage. This is a supplication prayer which invokes the blessing at the Kagyu Lamas, as to realise their state of awakening:

‘Great Dorje Chang (in blue), Tilopa, Nāropa, Marpa, Milarépa, Prince of Dharma – Gampopa.  
Knower of the three times – Karmapa and his (heart) sons, along with all the Kagyu Lamas I pray.’

Much preparation was needed to compose this piece – the prayer itself was written out several times over, using different nib types and sizes, as well as different inks – to establish just the right size lettering and flow of ink, as to fit beautifully smart within the confines of the ring of golden beads.

Working out the circumference form the radius size, then dividing up the circumference into 108 beads, adding different sized quarter beads, was geometry gymnastics, all applied with the upmost careful precision – every step of the way demanded full attention with calm awareness.