Vedic Art – Painting from Silence
I teach two approaches to painting: Vedic Art, which is rooted in the ancient Indian Vedic tradition, and Listening Painting, which is grounded in presence and self-listening.
Both approaches are based on slowing down, listening inwardly, being fully present, and expressing yourself freely through painting. In neither method are artworks judged, interpreted, or criticised.
The Background of Vedic Art
Vedic Art is rooted in the ancient Indian Vedic wisdom tradition. The word Veda means knowledge. The method does not require any study of the Vedic scriptures, nor does it require any particular philosophy, religion, or worldview.
Vedic Art was created by the Swedish artist Curt Kjällman (1938–2010). The method is based on the 17 Principles of Art, which he received from his teacher, the Indian Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (1911–2008).
In the Western world, Maharishi is best known as the founder and teacher of Transcendental Meditation. His teachings attracted many well-known artists, including The Beatles, and film director David Lynch was also a long-time practitioner of Transcendental Meditation.
Silence and the exploration of consciousness have long been sources of creativity for many artists, and they remain at the heart of Vedic Art today.
Vedic Art in Practice
In practice, silence is an essential part of the creative process in Vedic Art.
At the beginning of the course, we go through the practical arrangements, after which I gently guide the group into silence. Throughout the course, you will gradually be introduced to new Principles of Art. You will also receive painting exercises that allow you to experience each principle through your own creative process.
As you paint, I encourage you to notice what the process awakens within you—your thoughts, emotions, and inner experiences. These are often the places where new freedom, flow, and insight begin to emerge. The places where we experience resistance while painting are often the very same places where we experience resistance elsewhere in life.
Vedic Art is not therapy. Yet many people find that painting in silence has a therapeutic quality. The method offers a simple and accessible way to deepen self-awareness and awaken creativity.
My Journey
I began painting in 2004, but traditional art education never felt like the right path for me. I was searching for a deeper connection and a different way of approaching art. In 2013, I discovered Vedic Art—and with it, I found what I had been looking for.
My Background as a Vedic Art Teacher and Artist
I qualified as a Vedic Art teacher in 2019. My teachers were Marjaana Murto and Anne Kuntsi. Although I never had the opportunity to meet Curt Kjällman myself, both of my teachers studied directly under him. This means that I teach Vedic Art in the tradition established by Curt Kjällman.
In my teaching, I place the emphasis on the creative process rather than on technical painting skills. Technique develops naturally through painting, but the essence of Vedic Art lies in listening inwardly and expressing yourself intuitively. The method can enrich not only artistic practice but life as a whole.
As an artist, I have participated in both solo and group exhibitions. Some of these exhibitions have been juried by professional art curators. I am a member of the Finnish Artists’ Association (Suomen Taiteilijat ry). Some of my paintings have also been exhibited for sale and found new owners.
Painting, however, is not a profession or a goal-driven pursuit for me. It is a way of living creatively, exploring life, and expressing myself. As a Vedic Art teacher, I continue to deepen my own understanding through further study whenever it feels meaningful.
Through Vedic Art, I warmly invite you to enjoy the same relaxed, playful, and often surprising creative journey—a journey of listening to yourself.
Welcome to the world of painting!
– Art Listener Jenni Arbelius
