From SGI USA, I'm Cassidy Bradford, and this is Budability.

The weekly series where I talk with Buddhists from all walks of life about the power we each have to change our lives and the world around us.

Both Buddhism and art are about giving full expression to our humanity.

The Buddhist philosopher Daisaku Ikaeda often talked about the importance of having a poetic spirit and the power of art and culture to create peace.

While many of us may appreciate art in whatever form it takes, there may be fewer of us who make creating it their life's focus. For some, it might

just be that we love art and even creating it, but want to dedicate ourselves to other things.

But for some, even if you feel called to devote your life to art, the reality of doing

so feels nearly impossible.

It's no secret that making a living as an artist is tough.

Today you'll hear from two full-time artists.

Leo Matsuda, a successful animator and feature-length film director from LA,

and Brian Enright, an accomplished metalworker and sculptor from Oakland.

The three of us sat down to discuss how Buddhism informs their work and ultimately has been the key to their success.

And as a reminder, all our interviews are also available as videos on our YouTube channel.

So you can find a link for that in this episode's show notes.

All right, enjoy the show.

Welcome to Buttability, Leo and Brian.

It's great to have you here.

I know you're both busy.

Brian, you're traveling.

Leo, you just finished work.

Thank you so much for making time for this conversation.

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