A Life Immersed in Zen: The Art of Taiji Higashi (Fūgai Honkō) Taiji Higashi, revered also by his name Fūgai Honkō, emerges as a compelling figure bridging the realms of spiritual practice and artistic expression within 19th-century Japan. Born in 1779 in Aichi Prefecture, his life unfolded within the rigorous discipline of Sōtō Zen Buddhism, ultimately shaping not only his personal journey but also the distinctive character of his artwork. While precise details regarding his early years remain somewhat elusive, it’s clear that from a young age, Higashi demonstrated an aptitude for artistic…