Wabi Sabi

by Durston, Diane

• ISBN13: 9781580176286
• ISBN10: 1580176283
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2006-08-01
• Publisher: Storey Books

Summary

With "Slow Living" As the newest incarnation of the simplicity movement, the search for fresh inspriation on ways to live a more authentic life is as pressing as ever. Turning to Eastern traditions, people are discovering the Japanese concept of wabi sabi. The perfect antidote to today's frenzied, consumer-oriented culture, wabi sabi encourages slowing down, living modestly, and appreciating the natural and imperfect aspect of material culture. While defying definition, wabi sabi is best expressed in brief, evocative bites. In The Little Wabi Sabi Companion, Diane Durston, a noted writer on Japanese art and culture, presents a collection of reflections, along with classic poetry and verse from both Eastern and Western traditions, that capture the wabi-sabi moment, and inspire readers to do the same. The subtle beauty of nature, the simplicity of a found object, the impermanence of an autumnal flower arrangement, the solitude of a single fisherman in his boat are all celebrated and reflected upon in this easily browseable book. The text is complemented by photography and calligraphy inspired by the wabi-sabi spirit. This collection of simple, yet profound insights in an irresistable, hold-in-the-hand package ofers readers the opportunity for integrating moments of contemplation and meditation into their daily lives, and to discover the essence of wabi-sabi.

Author Biography

Diane Durston lived in Japan for 18 years and has served as a cultural consultant on Japan for corporations, universities, and museums, including the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. She is the author of Wabi Sabi, Old Kyoto, and Kyoto: Seven Paths to the Heart of the City. Durston lives in Portland, Oregon.