zen in the fifties

Yves Klein is influenced by Zen, which emphasize the unity and harmony of mind and body, the experience of true reality, transcendence above words, enlightenment through silence, thought surpassing logic and an awareness of the power of nothing.
Judo had apparently taught him how to restore and control energy, how to breath and move, given him a feeling for balance, proportions and satial harmony, as well as providing him with ways in which to express himself and with certain psychological rituals. p.124

'Le vide', the empty space of the Iris Clert Gallery, which Klein presented as an exhibition in May 1958, is reminiscent of the emptiness in temples and gardens which is favoured in Zen. Klein's intention with this work was to arouse an awareness of sensitivity and immateriality. 'Theatre du vide', a project which Klein conducted in August 1960, of an artist plunging into space, is a 'falling action' which is similar to 'floating through air' which occurs during a Judo fight. 'Le saut dans le vide' (Leap into emptiness), as Klein entitled his project in 1961, is also a description used in Zen meditation, referring to the ultimate goal of Satori. p.126-127