Ma: space/time in the garden of Ryoan-ji

Ma is a Japanese word that embodies a perception of space and time as one. Reflected in many Japanese art forms, it is fully realized in the garden of Ryoan-ji temple built in Kyoto in the 16th century. Here, fifteen stones are elegantly grouped in a rectangular space filled with white gravel. In this contemplative film, the camera slowly pans the tranquil setting, pausing to linger on the islands of stone and moss. The visuals are complemented by the poetic text of architect Arata Isozaki and the meditative music of Takehisa Kosugi.