As I stand before Monet’s Lilac Irises, I am struck by the subtle beauty and peacefulness that emanate from this painting. The delicate brushstrokes, the soft lilac hues, and the gentle curves of the irises all combine to create a sense of wabisabiness – an appreciation for the imperfections and transience of life.
Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that values simplicity, imperfection, and impermanence. It celebrates the beauty of things that are old, worn, and weathered, and finds joy in the irregularities and idiosyncrasies of the natural world. Monet’s Lilac Irises embody this philosophy perfectly.
The painting captures a moment in time when the irises were in full bloom. The flowers are arranged in a loose, naturalistic style, as if they had been plucked from a garden and placed haphazardly in a vase. The stems and leaves are slightly twisted and bent, as if they are struggling to hold up the weight of the flowers. The overall effect is one of relaxed, organic beauty.
But it is the imperfections in the painting that truly convey its wabisabiness. Monet’s brushstrokes are loose and fluid, giving the painting a sense of movement and spontaneity. The colors are muted and subtle, evoking a sense of quiet calm. There are no sharp edges or precise lines – everything blends together in a soft, dreamlike haze.
As I gaze at the painting, I am reminded of the impermanence of all things. The irises will wilt and fade, just as the painting itself will age and wear over time. And yet, there is a timeless quality to the painting – a sense of enduring beauty that transcends the passage of time.
In many ways, Monet’s Lilac Irises embody the essence of wabi-sabi. They are imperfect, impermanent, and yet utterly beautiful. They remind us to appreciate the simple things in life, to find joy in the fleeting moments, and to embrace the natural world with all its flaws and idiosyncrasies. For me, this painting is a masterpiece not just of art, but of philosophy – a testament to the enduring power of wabisabiness in our lives.
The New Renaissance Mindset 