Art Exhibition: Exploring Guhyaloka, the hidden Valley

An art project by Peter Bradley, based at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre.

The exhibition opens on Wednesday 2nd September, with a special Open Evening and conversation with the artist on Saturday 12th September from 6.00–8.00pm.

As Triratna Buddhists, the place where we go to become ordained is dear to our hearts, a place of mystery and spiritual resonance. Guhyaloka, situated in a hidden valley high above Alicante, Spain, is the primary ordination site for men, where the desire to take refuge in the three jewels of the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha is fully acknowledged during a long retreat.

Guhyaloka is improving its facilities, and has to raise significant funds. As an amateur painter, Peter set himself the goal of raising £1000 for the Guhyaloka appeal through creating a series of images, based on photographs from various contributors, to whom he is very grateful.

Peter would like to be ordained, but for personal reasons it’s unlikely that would be at Guhyaloka. Guhyaloka can be physically challenging: simple living, cold and wet weather in Spring, very hot and dry in Summer, when water is limited. It is remote, with steep paths and rough terrain: a journey into the hidden valley cannot be taken lightly. Nonetheless, he considers that through this project he has been able to explore the landscape, the buildings, and the quiet, natural beauty of this isolated refuge in a meaningful way.

Peter enjoys painting landscapes which require him to look deeply at nature, at colour and texture, at light and shadow. He aims to offer images that draw you into these unique landscapes. The act of painting draws out the painter’s feelings for the scene, it may be awe, or love, or the heartfelt appreciation of natural beauty. Peter found Guhyaloka a wonderful subject, and hopes you too enjoy exploring it through these works.

Peter would be delighted if you would like to purchase a painting or print. The first £1000 raised will be donated to the Guhyaloka Appeal. If more money is raised, some will be used to replace art materials used, and some to support the Cambridge Buddhist Centre.

You can view the exhibition weekdays 10am - 1pm, between Wednesday 2nd September, to Tuesday 22nd September .