Out Beyond the Window

Let the clouds pass.

Abstract

This animation project explores the concept of mindfulness, traditionally seen as a

structured practice, within the context of everyday, unobserved moments. It challenges

the conventional understanding of mindfulness as a rigid, formal practice by

demonstrating that it can naturally emerge in simple, spontaneous interactions. The

narrative follows a tourist and a woman who share a brief but subtle yet enlightening

encounter, symbolizing mindfulness through emotional awareness and acceptance.

Impetus

Born and raised in Tibet, I often heard my mother say, “Play seriously when playing,

study seriously when studying.” At the time, I didn’t think much of it and dismissed it as

a common piece of maternal advice. Similarly, I recall a line from the Japanese movie

Perfect Day, where the protagonist says to his niece, “Now is now, next time is next

time.” Reflecting on both my mother’s words and this line from the film, I realize that

they share a similar sentiment about the importance of being present in the moment.

7As I grew older, I began to reflect more deeply on the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism,

which had been part of my life since childhood. Initially, I saw them as familiar, almost

second nature to me. However, it wasn’t until I started watching lectures by Dzongsar

Khyentse Rinpoche that I realized I had taken the profound truths I had grown up with

for granted. I had thought that simply understanding these principles intellectually was

enough, but I hadn’t truly engaged with them or practiced them with intention.

Through this realization, I began to understand that mindfulness, often linked to

structured practices, does not need to be confined to rigid routines. It can emerge

naturally, even outside of formal settings. In this animation, I aim to show that

mindfulness can arise at any moment, without requiring strict rituals or rules. Whether

one is a Buddhist or not, the practice of mindfulness offers valuable benefits for our

daily lives.

Watch here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16waMi1Y1c1hN2MHkFWWrs8dOTRPhaKgV/view?usp=drive_link