#Enso tattoo meaning how to#

It’s not about how it looks, but what it means.Īs creators, we should celebrate imperfections, embrace them. This simply mark can prime your mind and put you in the right head space for creation, no matter the domain. The ensō contains the perfect and imperfect that is why it is always complete. When I sit down to start writing every day, I draw a quick ensō on my notepad, to signify both the start of this process of creation and to ease the pressure that making often comes with. I’ve started using it in my own writing practice. Perfect may be our ambition, but it is not the goal. In this way, the practice of ensō can serve as a daily ritual or spiritual practice used to remind yourself of this simple message. It lifts the weight off of your shoulders and let’s you make without worry or care. From writing to business to learning, remembering that imperfection is beautiful can give us the freedom to create without inhibition. Ensō is an important reminder in all endeavors. Of course you don’t have to be a calligrapher or artist to take advantage of it. It is also found on the cover of The Lean Startup by Eric Ries, where it symbolizes a constant cycle of learning that is never ending. Joseph Campbell’s book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, has an ensō that exemplifies creativity and freedom of expression within the world of literature. In fact, two of the more popular books of our time celebrate the idea of ensō. It has been used throughout history, in logos, designs, and even book covers. It is a simple reminder that imperfection is beauty, an idea closely related to kintsugi.īased on the technique used to create ensō, the fast and fluid brushstroke, it would appear that the goal is to remember the beauty of imperfection over all else. In this form, it exemplifies movement and progress towards perfection, even if it is not attainable. On the other hand, it may be open, as it often is, which takes on an entirely new meaning. When closed, it can represent perfection, closely resembling a circle, and relating to ideals of symmetry, balance, and mastery. In fact the premise of the ensō is multifaceted.

It is rough, messy, and at times not even complete. What makes the ensō more intriguing is that it is not perfect at all. It is permanent, no matter how it looks and it serves as a representation of the creator in that moment of time.įrom the artist perspective, the symbolism for perfection makes sense, as the circle signifies unity and completion. Once it’s drawn, there is no changing it.

Before they begin any work, they draw a quick circle in a fluid, expressive stroke. I recently came across another symbol that is just as intriguing: e nsō.Įnsō is a disciplined creative practice of Japanese ink painting, often done by artists, calligraphers, and creators. One of my personal favorites being memento mori, which reminds you that death is coming. There are many examples of such symbols all around us.

#Enso tattoo meaning how to#

Little reminders that tell you how to live, what’s important, and why you do what you do.