The aesthetic values of Japan reach beyond philosophical ideas about art and beauty, they are embraced as a way of life, centered around the concept of living in harmony with nature.

Geographic isolation of the island nation over centuries enabled cultural traditions to develop diverse and fascinating art forms. What makes the Japanese arts so uniquely appealing is that they merge with everyday life, they are accessable to all, as opposed to something separate, only to be admired from afar.

As one of the world’s most seismically active islands, the Japanese people are aware of not only the beauty that comes with each distinct season but the great power of nature. Volcanic eruptions, monsoons, earthquakes and tsunamis are a constant threat to Japan yet a sense of acceptance is ingrained in the mind-set of the people. When aware that life can be taken at any moment, one develops a heightened sense of appreciation for the here and now. The traditional arts of Japan, such as Ikebana, haiku poetry and the tea ceremony reflect this awareness, placing emphasis on the present moment.

Beauty is recognised in subtle, often overlooked details and places that encompass vast emptiness. Modest, refined simplicity is regarded as the highest form of beauty. This places emphasis on the viewer’s experience with the art, rather than be distracted by opulent materials. Imperfections, such as faded petals or time-worn leaves are sought after and embraced, they celebrate the beauty of life in every given phase.

Qualities such as simplicity, emptiness and vagueness are often misconstrued in western society as lacking something. In Japan however, these very qualities suggest maturity, a spiritual richness, for there is much to be discovered in empty space. Take the presentation of flowers as an example – in the west, masses of flowers in full bloom are held tightly in a vase with spays of foliage to fill the spaces between. Whereas in Japan, emphasis is placed on accentuating the individual features of a single flower, leaf or branch. The surrounding empty space is as relevant as the flower itself. For the space carries energy, room to breath and grow. Empty space is seen to be filled with possibilities.

In the 19th century, with the arrival of western traders, the unique arts of Japan were shared with the world. We began to see aspects of Japanese design in the great works of world renowned figures including Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet and architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Modern day Japan, although influenced by international trade and commerce has managed to preserve its distinctive traditional values. The contrast between technology and nature, consumer influence and pure Japanese tradition is clearly visible. At first glance, the high-tech city of Tokyo, filled with flashing billboards and crowds of rushing commuters appears chaotic, but beneath the urban surface, between the sky-scrapers, those tranquil treasures can still be found. Shrines, temples and tea houses with their serene gardens are present alongside modern day life. Japan is a place where the old and new complement one another, it doesn’t have to be an either or choice.

For further insight, please read the aesthetics principles of Shibui, Wabi-Sabi and Ma.

Thank you

Donna Canning