150 Years of Sri Aurobindo: The Pioneer of Integral Consciousness
Sustainability and Contemplative Civilization: The Integral Vision of Sri Aurobindo
Academic conference hosted by Asian Contemplative and Transcultural Studies (ACTS), co-hosted by Journal of Dharma Studies
Beyond Mind, in the Sfumato of Creativity: Divine Reflection on Karma Yoga in the Sustainable Now of Auroville
by Sasha Bainer
In the profound endeavor to understand the complex, not always harmoniously blended society of Auroville, one finds oneself meandering through a rich tapestry of philosophical underpinnings drawn from the ancient teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads, entwined with the artistic nuances expressed in da Vinci's "sfumato" technique. "Beyond Mind, in the Sfumato of Creativity" invites attendees to delve into a profound exploration of the harmonious interplay between various elements that shape the present, sustainable moment in Auroville - a moment that is divine, creative, and continually evolving. The presentation navigates the intricate pathways of Karma Yoga, as elucidated in the Bhagavad Gita, a doctrine advocating for selfless action, a path leading to the realization of the divine. Through a lens transcending the mental sphere, the lecture ponders upon the Upanishadic concept of reflection, where the individual self mirrors the ultimate reality, inviting a dialogue on the divine reflection evident in the contemporary contemplative society of Auroville. We venture further, drawing parallels with da Vinci's "sfumato" technique, a method defined by blurred lines and seamless transitions, a literal and metaphorical expression of blending realities. This artistic nuance offers a fresh perspective to comprehend the dynamism of Auroville, a space embodying blended boundaries, where spiritual philosophy and reality meet, a society striving to sustain itself through a philosophy rooted in present-moment awareness and divine reflection. The lecture aims to unfurl the rich layers of this "sfumato of creativity" in Auroville's societal fabric, an exploration beyond the mind, where the divine expresses itself not just as a future potentiality but a vibrant, living reality in the current moment. It is a deep dive into the nuanced understanding of ownership in Auroville, examining how Karma Yoga finds its vital, living expression in the communal ethos of shared stewardship, guided by the visionary insights of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother. Join me as we voyage through philosophic doctrines and artistic techniques, transcending time and mind, to unravel the depth of the living, breathing entity that is Auroville - a society sustained by divine reflection, a testament to human potentiality and the boundless creativity that arises in the sacred space of the “Now.”
Sasha Mardikian Bainer is currently a master’s student at California Institute of Integral Studies in the East West Psychology Department. Sasha holds a dual master’s degree in Social Work and Public Administration from Columbia University. Her career was focused on development and educational administration, owing her professional success to a lifelong fascination and burning desire to both understand and help people. Studying at CIIS offers a chance for Sasha to incorporate spirituality into her professional life with the goal of lessening suffering for herself and others. With a deep personal interest in Sri Aurobindo's integrative approach to spirituality, Sasha has explored the intersections of spirituality, philosophy, and psychology in her work. Sasha is passionate about sharing the profound insights and holistic vision of Sri Aurobindo's philosophy with a wider audience, facilitating deeper understandings and personal growth. sashabainer@gmail.com.
September 23rd-26th, 2023
Namaste Hall, California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco
15 окт 2024
