The 7 elements of SHIBUI

SIMPLICITY • IMPLICITY • MODESTY • NATURALNESS • EVERYDAYNESS • IMPERFECTION • SILENCE

 

CREATING NATURE ABSTRACTS INFUSED WITH SHIBUI

"Shibui" (Shibusa/Shibumi) is a Japanese aesthetic concept that values understated elegance or refined simplicity which is achieved through a combination of modesty, austerity, and attention to detail. Shibui often involves an appreciation for natural materials, subtle textures, and a sense of balance or harmony. It can be found in various aspects of Japanese culture, including art, design, architecture, and even in the tea ceremony.

In the context of creating art, the concept of Shibui has been deeply influential for me. Here's how Shibui infuses my nature abstracts:

Simplicity with Depth: Shibui encourages artists to convey complex ideas or emotions through simple and unassuming means. This might involve using minimalistic compositions, restrained colour palettes, or subtle brushwork to evoke a deeper sense of meaning or beauty. → I remove the chatter of loud colour and create tranquil black and white photographs.

Natural Materials and Texture: Artists embracing Shibui may prioritise using natural materials such as wood, stone, or handmade paper in their artworks. They might also incorporate textures or imperfections inherent in these materials, celebrating their organic qualities rather than concealing them. → I photograph nature.

Attention to Detail: Shibui values meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. Artists may spend significant time refining every aspect of their work, from the placement of brush strokes to the choice of framing or presentation. Each detail is carefully considered to enhance the overall aesthetic experience. → I confidently curate, edit and present my work.

Harmony and Balance: Central to Shibui is the idea of achieving harmony and balance in art. This might involve balancing negative space with focal points, creating a sense of rhythm or flow within the composition, or finding harmony between contrasting elements such as light and shadow. → Although abstract, I strive for sensuous, flowing, calming art.

Embracing Imperfection: Shibui embraces imperfection as an essential part of beauty. Artists may intentionally incorporate elements of asymmetry, irregularity, or weathering into their work, recognizing the beauty in life's transience and impermanence. → I never add or remove anything. I photograph as is and edit with everything in it.

Overall, embracing the Shibui aesthetic in art encourages me to create art work that is understated yet deeply resonant, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the subtle beauty found in simplicity and refinement.

SHIBUI IN MY LIFE

I had fallen in love with Japan and its appreciation of exquisiteness and refinement during my travels and immersion into Buddhism, Shintoism, and Zen meditation.

I learned about Shibui in 2007, delving into Japanese architecture and applying Japanese design principles to build my first house.

After a severe Burnout in 2008, I longed for a life filled with mindfulness and simplicity, ultimately leading to a richer and more meaningful way of life. I changed my nutrition, exercise regime, meditation practice... I jumped through a lot of new hoops. Searching. Flailing.

I asked myself if the principles of Shibui can extend beyond art and aesthetics to serve as a framework for living a fulfilling and balanced life. YES! Here's how I have been applying Shibui principles to my life ever since:

Simplicity and Minimalism: Embracing simplicity in life lead to greater clarity, focus, and contentment. By prioritizing what truly matters and decluttering my life from unnecessary distractions, I can cultivate a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Naturalness and Modesty: Just as Shibui values natural materials and textures in art, I can find joy and inspiration in the magnificent beauty of nature. Spending a lot of time outdoors, hiking with my dog, cultivating my garden, and appreciating varied natural landscapes helps me foster a deeper connection with the world around me.

Implicitness and Imperfection: This was a big one for me. My main burnout triggers were perfectionism and ambition — all for the wrong reasons! How I apply attention to detail to my daily endeavours can lead to a greater sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Whether it's in my work, relationships, or hobbies, taking the time to do things well and with care — but being okay with imperfection — enhances my overall sense of fulfillment. Embracing imperfection and transience in recognising and accepting the impermanent nature of life helps me let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace the beauty of imperfection. It allows me to approach challenges with resilience and cultivate gratitude for the moments of joy and growth that arise amidst life's ups and downs.

Seeking harmony and balance in Everydayness: Striving for balance in all aspects of life, whether it's balancing work and leisure, prioritizing self-care, or nurturing meaningful relationships, contributes to a sense of well-being and harmony.

Silence: This principle holds profound significance as an integral element of my own aesthetic expression and spiritual contemplation. Like a pause between musical notes, silence in Shibui allows for moments of reflection and reverence. It is the space between words where meaning deepens and emotions resonate. Silence in Shibui is not merely the absence of sound but a deliberate choice to embrace stillness, allowing the mind to rest and the soul to find solace in the subtle beauty of the present moment.

By integrating these Shibui principles into my life, I was able to heal and evolve. I left the corporate world and became a photographer. But that's another story for another day.

Surround yourself with Shibui infused art

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