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Art and Design

Ensō

Bookmarked circle that is hand-drawn in one or two uninhibited brushstrokes to express a moment when the mind is free to let the body create (Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.)

Ensō

I learned why this symbol is on the cover of so many minimalism and self help type books, and in logos!

The ensō symbolizes absolute enlightenment, strength, elegance, the universe, and mu (the void).

Zen practitioners relate the idea to wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection. When the circle is closed, it represents perfection.

Usually, a person draws the ensō in one fluid, expressive stroke.

By Tracy Durnell

Writer and designer in the Seattle area. Freelance sustainability consultant. Reach me at tracy.durnell@gmail.com. She/her.

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