Enso: Zen Circles of Enlightenment

By Audrey Yoshiko Seo

Book Overview

The enso is one of the most prevalent images of Zen art, and it has become a kind of symbol of the clean and strong Japanese aesthetic. It has been subject to a rich variety of interpretations--seen... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0834805758
• ISBN13: 9780834805750
• Release Date: March 2007
• Publisher: Weatherhill
• Length: 170 Pages
• Weight: 1.24 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 7.2" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

A great guide to the philosophy and beauty of Zen Circles of Enlightenment

As someone who has had a life long interest in Asian martial arts, brush/ink arts, Haiku and Enso(Zen circles), I found this to be an excellent guide to the philosophical aspects of Zen circles. I never realized how many types of circles could be made and all are unique in themselves. The introduction explains the relationship between Zen and the circle. The circle is often used in Zen to teach, enlighten and look into ourselves. Each brush stroke is unique in itself. In conclusion, this is a book anyone who is into Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy) and Enso (Zen circle of enlightenment)will love. Rating: 5 stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Season of the Warrior: a poetic tribute to warriors, Never Trust a Politician, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).

Great work! Inspires me to try it!

It is a wonderful teaching illustration of Zen writing and artistic expression throughout history. It is a rich work for those particularly drawn to the Circle whether from the East or West.

Zen Circles

This is an excellent consideration of both the circles and the accompanying texts that are part of the enso experience. There is a perceptive description of each of the monks (and occasionally a nun) who created the ensos selected and an interesting analysis of both the art of the circle and the calligraphy of the individual work he or she created. As an artist I found the material in this book stimulating and productive.