The traditional Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi is based on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. It is centered on the appreciation of beauty that is “imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete” in nature. Characteristics of wabi-sabi include asymmetry, roughness, simplicity, economy, austerity, modesty, intimacy, spontaneity and the appreciation of both natural objects and the forces of nature.
Imperfect
A perfect circle has far less character and interest than an imperfect, hand-drawn circle, which is more compelling because of its imperfections.
Impermanent
An artist needs to be prepared to let go of a creation, even to the point of destroying work.
Incomplete
The two most difficult phases of the creative process are initiating the process, and deciding when a work is complete. The later is entirely subjective, and, more often than not, indefensible.
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