Latest news with #Shaolin
Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
I am behind some of Glasgow's biggest murals, now I am doing a first
Smug, whose real name is Sam Bates, is accustomed to creating large pieces on the gable ends of buildings throughout the city. He's the artist behind some of the city's most recognisable artworks, such as the now-famous St Mungo mural on High Street. Smug, 42, explained: "You can't get your nose millimetres from the paint to see all the small details six storeys in the air, but you can in here." He sits proudly in Grateful Gallery in Garnethill, where eight framed works of his are hanging in his first solo art exhibit in the city. Sam Bates, known as Smug, outside Grateful Gallery (Image: Gordon Terris) READ MORE: HUGE new mural being painted in Glasgow city centre by well-known artist The show titled Dead Grateful explores the 'intersection of religion and mortality, uniting the visceral image of skeletal remains with the transcendence of faith'. Smug said: "I just like to sort of juxtapose... the core of the human being being the skeleton with the spirituality of these different monks and try and give them life. "People have this view of skeletons as being morbid and death, and I've never seen it like that. "Even though a skeleton is technically a dead thing, I think you can portray them in a way that gives them life. And I think some of these look alive..." "Skeletons, they're always smiling, you know? I don't think it needs to be this morbid and dark view of them. I think it can be fun. And skeletons are just cool." READ MORE: Artist behind Billy Connolly mural's mission to get artwork to iconic comedian He painted the artworks, which show various monks and religious acolytes as skeletal figures, around two or three years ago. Smug said: "The idea was of presenting a series of paintings incorporating themes of religion, death, and spirituality. "I've included broadly three different monk themes: the Christian monks, the warrior monks like the Shaolin and the Sohei, and the Buddhist and Tibetan monks as well." The work focuses on the Australian-born artist's fascination with bones, skeletons and all things unseen about anatomy. He explained: "I've always been fascinated with skulls and bones and like anatomy and not like a gory, gross, psychopathic way... It's just fascinating because it's a part of the body that we never see. "It's an anatomical thing for me, and I've always been fascinated. "I grew up on a farm, so we get a lot of animal sort of remains lying around, and I would always collect them, and my family would think I'm a bit weird." Glasgow mural artist Smug puts on first free gallery show (Image: Newsquest/Gordon Terris) READ MORE: New mural appears by iconic artist in area that feels 'like Spain or Italy' Smug added: "It's fascinating seeing the areas of a skull or bones where the nerve sort of travels through or where the tendons are attached, and then where the muscles sit. It's just interesting to me." "Every skeleton, unless you're an expert, generally looks the same. "They're raceless, they're genderless, because we're all kind of the same, you know, and kind of like that. I think it adds a bit of romance to them." Smug settled in Scotland in the early 2000s and has since cemented himself as Glasgow's mural master. He explained that he's always felt an affinity with the city: "I'm from a small town south of Sydney. "I'm from a really working-class, rough little town. So I acclimatised here really quickly. "The Scottish humour, especially Glaswegian humour, is really similar to the Australian sense of humour that I have, that dry, satirical wit. "So, it did feel like home." Smug's been working on a huge new mural in the city centre (Image: Supplied) READ MORE: Government intervene in Glasgow O2 ABC site plans over risk to Art School He credits the move to Scotland with giving him opportunities, saying he was "already addicted to painting" when he moved here, but the paid work and support here is something that he's "unsure he would have got in Australia." Smug recognises the importance of his work's impact on the city skyline, but is always "blown away" by the reaction he gets. He said: "It's weird because I would never anticipate that it would be as celebrated as much as it is. And for me, I was just painting, it's what I do." One of the pieces, titled 'Faith', is being auctioned off, with half of the funds going to Calton Athletic Recovery Group, which they describe as 'an immensely significant Glasgow charity helping people with drug and alcohol addiction through their unique approach to abstinence and recovery.' One of Smug's most famous mural of St Mungo on High Street (Image: Jane Barlow/PA Wire) READ MORE: Glasgow residents 'vindicated' as council make this move over drug problem Grateful Gallery was founded in June 2025 by Glasgow artists OhPandah, Conzo and Ciaran Globel. They said: "We have all known Smug for years, he's one of the best in the world, so it's a massive honour to show his work in the gallery. "This is our first ever solo show, so it's incredible to show such awe-inspiring work by an artist who's at the top of his game and globally recognised within our culture. "We really appreciate Smug showing with us so early on in our journey, and we hope to have him back in the future along with so many other artists who have inspired us over the years." The show is open now until August 3, and is free to attend. Grateful Gallery is open from Wednesday to Sunday.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
NBA insider reveals real reason behind Victor Wembanyama's China trip for monk training
NBA insider reveals real reason behind Victor Wembanyama's China trip for monk training (Image Source: Getty Images) Victor Wembanyama made an unexpected turn this summer. The 21-year-old San Antonio Spurs star visited China rather than staying in France or working out with NBA coaches Stateside. Images came to light showing him working with Shaolin monks. Fans wondered about the reason, but the actual story behind this unexpected move is now coming to light and it speaks much about Wembanyama's mental attitude. Victor Wembanyama takes intense kung fu path in China to rebuild body and mind Victor Wembanyama did something unexpected this summer. Instead of training in the U.S. or France, he flew to China. Fans were surprised. Why was the NBA star at a Shaolin temple? What was he doing there? (Image Source: X) The 21-year-old didn't follow the usual path. Most NBA players work out in gyms. They train with coaches. But Wembanyama went somewhere different. He chose a temple known for kung fu, not basketball. He spent part of his offseason there. The place is old and full of history. It's where monks train their minds and bodies. It's not where you'd expect to find a 7-foot-4 athlete. According to Michael C. Wright of ESPN, Wembanyama stayed at the Shaolin Temple in Zhengzhou. He was there for 10 days in early July 2025. The temple is in Henan Province, China. It's world-famous for training monks in kung fu and mental discipline. Victor Wembanyama chose Shaolin monks over regular trainers Sources told Michael C. Wright of ESPN that Victor Wembanyama made the trip to challenge both his body and mind. 'He wanted something different,' Wright reported. 'It wasn't about shooting drills or weights. It was about control, focus, and learning how to move better.' Wembanyama used this time to study kung fu and body movement techniques. He worked on mental focus and learned how to position his body in new ways that may help his performance on the basketball court. According to Wright, this style of training could help him improve his flexibility and balance, skills that are beneficial for a big man in the NBA. 'He's always pushing himself,' said one team staff member who spoke anonymously. 'He doesn't think like other players.' The French star is also coming off a serious medical condition. In March 2025, he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. Now, he's been cleared to return to full training and plans to apply what he learned in China to his game. Wembanyama led the NBA in blocks in his second season, even though he only played 46 games. His efforts in China demonstrate his commitment to reaching his full potential. Also Read: NBA Summer League gets Kelly Bowman Flagg's mom-approved moment as Cooper Flagg reconnects with Kon Knuep The trip to China wasn't made public at first. It was only after he returned that fans discovered his unusual training method. Now, it's clear that Wembanyama is chasing something much deeper than just basketball. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Victor Wembanyama set to rejoin San Antonio Spurs rotation following recovery from frightening blood clot diagnosis
Victor Wembanyama. Image via: Getty Images San Antonio Spurs fans finally have the news they've been anxiously awaiting. Victor Wembanyama is officially back. The 7-foot-3 French sensation has been cleared to resume basketball activities after months of uncertainty stemming from a blood clot diagnosis that abruptly ended his NBA season. Wembanyama's return marks a major boost for the Spurs' young core as the franchise prepares for what could be a transformative season in 2025-26. Victor Wembanyama gets green light to suit up again for San Antonio Spurs after blood clot scare Speaking to L'Équipe, Wembanyama shared his relief. 'I'm officially cleared to resume,' he told reporter Maxime Aubin. 'It's fresh, I only got the approval from the Spurs medical staff a few hours ago. Phew, I'm finally going to be able to play a little basketball again!' The diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder came in late February, shortly after the All-Star break. At the time, Wembanyama was averaging an eye-popping 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 3.8 blocks and 1.1 steals per game. According to The Associated Press, the diagnosis ended what had been a dominant second season that saw him participate in his first All-Star Game and lead the league in blocks, despite missing 36 games. Yet it wasn't just the physical toll that weighed on the 21-year-old. 'I was afraid of not being able to play basketball anymore,' he admitted. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giá vàng đang tăng mạnh trong năm 2025 — Các nhà giao dịch thông minh đã tham gia IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo 'I think that we all have thoughts sometimes. Irrational thoughts about the things we care about most. But this type of thinking also changes you as a person, for the better.' During his time away from the court, Wembanyama didn't remain idle. His journey of recovery took him across the globe— from Costa Rica to Japan, and most notably, a 10-day retreat at a Shaolin temple in Zhengzhou, China. There, he immersed himself in the life of a warrior monk. 'We were initiated there to the life of a warrior monk, which combines Buddhism and intensive kung fu practice,' Wembanyama explained. 'It was more than 1,000 kicks to do per day, jumps, balance exercises, stretching. … We used muscles that we rarely used and which were quickly overloaded. I had some of the biggest aches and pains of my life.' San Antonio Spurs' future is looking better with Victor Wembanyama at the center San Antonio's rebuild took a leap forward during Wembanyama's absence. The team added 2025 No. 2 pick Dylan Harper and No. 14 pick Carter Bryant. They also acquired All-Star guard De'Aaron Fox from the Sacramento Kings in a blockbuster deal at the trade deadline. With Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle returning and Carter Bryant already showing defensive promise in the Summer League, the Spurs are quietly assembling one of the most exciting young rosters in the NBA. 'I think my injury accelerated things,' Wembanyama shared. 'Even though I wouldn't wish it on anyone, the reflections and questioning caused by such an injury can't be bought. I think it's an experience we'll benefit from in the future. For next season, I hope we qualify for the playoffs.' While he acknowledged there's still conditioning and shoulder work left before he's at full strength, the 21-year-old is optimistic and focused. 'There are plenty of reflexes to find, both conscious and linked to muscle memory,' he said. Also Read: 'Took a nap afterwards' – Michael Porter Jr gets candid after his departure from Nikola Jokic's team The Spurs finished last season 34-48, missing the playoffs. But with Mitch Johnson now taking the reins from Gregg Popovich as head coach, and Wembanyama healthy again, San Antonio's resurgence may begin sooner than expected. As Wemby prepares for a full training camp, the roster shows full promise for the fans. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Boston Globe
6 days ago
- Sport
- Boston Globe
Spurs center Victor Wembanyama says he's been cleared to return following blood clot
Wembanyama was the league's Advertisement He was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists when he was shut down; the only other player in NBA history to finish a season averaging all that was Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1975-76. Wembanyama has traveled extensively recently and spent time last month at a Shaolin temple in Zhengzhou, China. The temple is a place that welcomes visitors who wish to study Chan meditation, Shaolin Kung Fu, traditional Chinese medicine, and more. Related :
NBC News
6 days ago
- Sport
- NBC News
Spurs' Victor Wembanyama says he's been cleared to return after blood clot
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama expects to play this coming season and has been fully cleared after dealing with deep vein thrombosis in his shoulder for the last few months, he told the French newspaper L'Equipe in remarks published Monday. There was no immediate comment from the Spurs on the report. It has been expected that the team anticipated Wembanyama would be able to start this coming season, though there was no official word until now. "I'm officially cleared to return. … I'll finally be able to play a bit of basketball again," Wembanyama told the French sports daily. Wembanyama was the league's rookie of the year two years ago, and Spurs guard Stephon Castle won that same trophy this past season. Wembanyama was the front-runner to be defensive player of the year last season when he was diagnosed with the blood clot in his right shoulder in February. He was averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks and 3.7 assists when he was shut down; the only other player in NBA history to finish a season averaging all that was Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1975-76. Wembanyama has traveled extensively in recent months and spent time last month at a Shaolin temple in Zhengzhou, China. The temple is a place that welcomes visitors who wish to study Chan meditation, Shaolin Kung Fu, traditional Chinese medicine and more.
