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WABI SABI - JAPANESE AESTHETICS

Updated: Jan 30, 2023

You've probably heard that Wabi-sabi is a new trend in design/art/lifestyle. Although it appears to be popular right now, along with ideas like Hygge, I believe it transcends fashion and merits a brief explanation. In order to offer you the entire scope of the idea, we will attempt to simplify it with images in this blog.





わびさび (wabi-sabi) comes from わびしさ (wabishisa) and さびしさ (sabishisa), but with an artistic twist that represents Japan’s perception of beauty and art.



Image Credit: Innerunion


Wabi-sabi has a complex meaning and a lengthy history, making it challenging to properly interpret. There is no literal translation; rather, it is more of a compilation of feelings and nuances.

Image Credit: Innerunion




In traditional Japanese aesthetics, Wabi-sabi is a worldview that focuses on the acceptance of mortality and imperfection. Aesthetics is sometimes described as one of "imperfect" beauties.


The concept of Wabi emerged with the integration of minimal life, humility and nature. It refers to individuals who are content with less, to evaluate the existing ones with a focus on savings, and even to individuals who always have less.


The minimal life, humility and integration with nature defines the concept of Wabi. This concept refers to being content with less, evaluating what is available with a focus on savings, and even individuals who always have less.


It emphasizes the beauty of the temporary, rustic and imperfect. It focuses on the modern traces of the era and the characteristic features of objects. It both argues that the aesthetic ideal is not perfectly polished, and prioritizes the nobility of nature.


According to this philosophy, a crack in ceramics should celebrate rather than hide it, and even emphasize this authenticity in the commodity, since the unique properties of an object give it a unique and valuable character.


In the Wabi Sabi design concept, there is the integration of the aesthetic understanding of the Western World with the Japanese idealism.


Greek mathematics, symmetry, sharp lines and proportion, stemming from the pursuit of invincibility and perfection, are dominant in the aesthetic understanding of the Western world.


In the understanding of aesthetics and wisdom in Japanese philosophy, transience, spirituality, fragility, humble and even respect for the imperfect dominate. That is, it is an appreciation of the volatile beauty of what is imperfect, discontinuous, and lacking in the physical world.


SURFACES WITH RAW BEAUTY

It appears to be primitive handwork. This sense can be seen in architecture, as well as walls, surfaces, shelves, items, art, and design.


FORMS THAT ARE AMORPHOUS, DYNAMIC OR SCULPTURAL


An admiration for uneven, organic shapes as metaphors of our flawed life. Introspection is required while referencing sculpture. They are often primitive, evocative of simpler times.


SCENT

Organic candles that are considered healthful, scented lamps, and essential oils that generate a pleasant aroma are required in this design. You may transform the ambiance of your home with a few simple but effective products.



ELEMENT OF BALANCE IN DESIGN


A balance is attempted to be produced by symmetry while establishing composition in the interior using western design theory principles. This, however, is not a case to be emulated while creating Wabi Sabi. Wabi Sabi design is also not haphazard or simple. Artificial symmetry cries out, bringing with it its own harmony, calm, and tranquillity.



CLUTTER FREE


A clutter-free environment is intended for while planning the house, along with a powerful organization. Prevent unnecessary elements from interfering with your design.




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