The number 108, a potent symbol in Buddhism, Hinduism and other Eastern spiritual traditions, has inspired the work of Seattle-based abstract painter Catherine Eaton Skinner since 2004. Best known for her encaustic paintings incorporating natural imagery, Skinner's Gya Gye(Tibetan for 108) and related series represent dramatic experimentation in form, process and viewer engagement. Informed by extensive travels in Bhutan, India, Japan and elsewhere--along with her corresponding research into languages and philosophical systems--she expanded her mediums to include rope, fabric, glass, stones and found objects which she modified in unpredictable ways. Although some of the series, such as the Elementspaintings, retain recognizable imagery, her recent series bring 108 into the 21st century. From QR code patterns to the simple, interminable zeroes and ones of binary language, Skinner discerns pictorial aptitude in contemporary digital codes. Other series explore ancient tally marks--both Eastern and Western--and the abstracting impact of systematically repeating simplified mountains or tight details of eyes, among other universal motifs.

"These 108 teachings are a meditative introduction to the Himalayan Siddha tradition, communicating "true messages from the universe." They are conveyed in the form of a Siddha diksha mantra, which is intended to protect and transform its readers"--

This book is a thoroughly researched primer on the 108 Upanishads, philosophical treatises that form a part of the Vedas, the revered Hindu texts. These Upanishads contain the most crystallized bits of wisdom gleaned from Hinduism. Professor Dalal explains the concepts at the core of each Upanishad clearly and lucidly. Moreover, her vast, diverse philosophical and theological readings add priceless scholarly context, making this volume indispensable for students of religious studies.