Jean-Michel Basquiat's art is full of wabisabiness, a concept that derives from Japanese aesthetics that embraces the beauty of imperfection, transience, and the natural cycle of growth, decay, and death. Basquiat's art captures the essence of wabi-sabi through his unique style that blends graffiti, neo-expressionism, and primitivism. His works are a celebration of the imperfect, … Continue reading Where we find Wabi-Sabi in Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Art
Consider the wabi-sabi-ness of Monet’s Lilac Irises
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 … Continue reading Consider the wabi-sabi-ness of Monet’s Lilac Irises
Why I feel wabi-sabi-ness in Monet’s Soleil Couchant sur la Seine
As an amature art critic and historian, I have always been drawn to the concept of Wabi-sabi. This Japanese aesthetic is based on the beauty of impermanence and imperfection, and it is an idea that I find particularly relevant when considering the work of Claude Monet. In particular, Monet's painting "Soleil Couchant sur la Seine" … Continue reading Why I feel wabi-sabi-ness in Monet’s Soleil Couchant sur la Seine
Is there wabi-sabi-ness in Monet’s Blue Water Lillies?
When we think of the French Impressionist Claude Monet, we often think of his vibrant and colorful landscapes that capture the fleeting moments of light and atmosphere. However, in his later years, Monet became increasingly interested in the subtle and muted beauty of the natural world. One of his most iconic series from this period … Continue reading Is there wabi-sabi-ness in Monet’s Blue Water Lillies?
What is the Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic?
Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that values the beauty of imperfection, transience, and simplicity. Its roots are in the Buddhist philosophy of impermanence and the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Wabi-Sabi has become increasingly popular in contemporary design, art, and architecture, influencing Western aesthetics and design practices. In this essay, I will explore the origins, principles, … Continue reading What is the Wabi-Sabi Aesthetic?
My Dreams were bigger than me
If there was a biography about you, what would the title be?
In the thick off it – A thicket: A Photo Safari in 2022
In the dog days of August, one hopes for a reprieve from the noon-day heat in the shade of trees. This reprieve doesn't come easily on suburban walks along the older main roads... while searching for some shade, I noticed how these cedar hedges were trimmed so aggressively on the road side. I had stop … Continue reading In the thick off it – A thicket: A Photo Safari in 2022
Jolene – A Photo Safari in 2022
On a cold, windy, and cloudy day, one sometimes only sees grey. The question is how to capture that feeling without being too obvious. I happily snapped various vistas and hoped for the best. This one revealed itself in a far corner of another shot... perhaps it was Tom Waits' voicing melancholic moods, and/or the … Continue reading Jolene – A Photo Safari in 2022
The New Renaissance Mindset 