Bryan Mulvihill

Shan Yama Mountain Permutations, Homage to Han Shan Cold Mountain

2024

Bryan Mulvihill, known as "Trolley Bus," is a respected Vancouver artist and scholar renowned for his innovative work in Asian calligraphy, particularly through tea ceremonies and his unique style, "Calligraffiti." His journey into Chinese ink brush painting began in 1959 under Master Lloyd Yee in Vancouver's Chinatown, where he learned fundamental techniques based on the 'Mustard Seed Garden Manual.' These early lessons set the stage for his extensive education in Fine Arts and Asian Art History. Mulvihill holds a BFA from the University of British Columbia, where he focused on Asian and Modern Art History and Buddhist Studies. His scholarly work extended internationally, including research at the British Museum in Tibetan and Trans-Himalayan studies, and at the Library and Archives of the Dalai Lama in India, deepening his understanding of Tibetan cultural practices. His studies continued back at UBC and Simon Fraser University, where he explored Buddhist iconography and sound. Central to Mulvihill's work is his integration of traditional Chinese ink painting with Asian tea traditions and Buddhist and Taoist contemplative practices, emphasizing the role of mindset in calligraphy. His travels in Asia enriched his understanding of these traditions, which he views as pathways to human consciousness and our relationship with nature. A major component of his work, particularly showcased at ADDITION, is characterized by Chinese characters arranged in a mandala style allowing for dynamic engagement. His Calligraffiti blends 'Cut-Up' and 'Permutation' techniques, resulting in works that, while seemingly abstract, are rich in meaning. Influenced by Brion Gysin, Mulvihill explores permutation methods using Chan/Zen texts to create grid patterns that invite a meditative awareness in the viewer. An integral concept in Mulvihill's art is the idea of 'Chung,' meaning 'right way' or path, from Taoist and Buddhist philosophies, emphasized in the I-Ching. This concept underpins his exploration of life's complexities through his art, striving for an open state of awareness akin to meditative practice. His Calligraffiti echoes traditional tea art forms, aiming to cultivate tranquillity and respect for artistic traditions. The pieces featured at ADDITION, created in his New Delhi studio in 2023, use handmade cotton paper and pigments from Delhi, which play with light to provoke deeper contemplation. Beyond his studio work, Mulvihill is recognized for his role in the World Tea Party, a pan-cultural installation staged globally, using tea rituals as metaphors for dialogue and cultural exchange. This project has been presented at notable venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, National Gallery of Canada, and the Venice Biennale. His art has been showcased at significant venues, including the Mary Frazee Gallery in Vancouver, the Lalit Kala Academie in New Delhi, and major events like the Liverpool Biennale and Vancouver Winter Olympics. Currently, Mulvihill is collaborating with MOCA London on "The Word is Art," with exhibitions planned for Shanghai in 2026, highlighting his ongoing commitment to expanding the boundaries of calligraphy and promoting cross-cultural dialogue through art.