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At the still-point in the center of the circle one can see the infinite in all things.
— Chuang Tzu –
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circular forms:
ENSO + CO.
Thoth first drew an Ensō¹ as part of the Taogram series. Over time, he returned to the famous Zen circle repeatedly, realizing that this ‘symbol of all symbols’ deserved a collection of its own — one where he could explore its nature and possibilities in greater depth.
Drawing Ensō is a disciplined yet creative practice in Japanese calligraphy and ink painting, typically executed in a single, fluid, expressive stroke. The circle may be open or closed, and Zen practitioners often connect it to Wabi-Sabi², the beauty of imperfection.
Many Japanese calligraphers practice drawing Ensō daily throughout their careers, both as active meditation and in the pursuit of an unattainable mastery. As an Ensō beginner, one strives to create the perfect circle, and many early attempts end up discarded. Thoth regularly draws Ensō (Zen Circles) as part of his meditative practice, using traditional black ink and mineral pigments on various types of Washi paper. Appreciating the imperfection, originality, and individuality of each circle.
Thoth admits to being utterly fascinated by circles and dots, and new artworks and related series will be continuously added to this collection.
Side Note : Thoth has written an article about symbols based on circles and his perspective on this topic. If you’re interested in the magic of Ensō and circles, give it a read!
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Selected artworks from this series:
Earthy Ensō
Ensō N°53
Ensō N° 22
Fractal Om
Ensō N°2
Seed (Spiral Ensō)
Ovum
Echoes Of Sufi Dances | Ensō N°55
Annulus N° 1
Dragon | Ensō N°38
Ensō N°31, N°43 + N°41
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Not part of the Enso + Co. collection, but closely related, Thoth created the abstract print series Études Circulaires, which explores the symbolism of the circle and its connection to Zen Buddhism and other philosophical themes. What began as an experiment evolved into a 21-piece print series, primarily utilizing digital processes like vector drawings and Photoshop collages, incorporating painted fragments from earlier ink drawings.
Read more about the Études Circulaires series and the individual artworks here.
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See all circular works:
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Glossary of related terms:
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Ensō (円相) : The Japanese word for circle, symbolizing absolute enlightenment, strength, elegance, the universe, and mu (無 / the void).
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Wabi-Sabi (侘寂) : A Japanese aesthetic concept that appreciates the beauty of imperfection, transience, and simplicity, finding value in the natural, aged, and weathered aspects of objects and experiences.
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