aesthetic
concept
japanese
The Japanese aesthetic term "shibumi" refers to a feeling of easy grace and simplicity. Its emphasis on the essential and rejection of extravagance and flamboyance are its defining characteristics.
The principles of Shibumi can be seen in Art, design, and everyday life. Shibumi highlights a subtle beauty that arises from the interplay of materials, form, and space in the context of art.
In design, shibumi involves a focus on functionality and a rejection of ornamentation. In everyday life, Shibumi can be seen in the cultivation of a serene and contemplative mindset.
Color is associated with meditation rather than spectacle. Understated, not innocent. Subdued colors mixed with gray tones produce a silvery glance.
Beaver color
Negishiiro
Burnt Tea
Yellow Oak
Lavender Gray
Black Oak
Ancient Purple
persimmon
tea
wine
Spices
In aesthetics and taste, shibu is extended to an adjectival form, shibui, which indicates "astringent" and/or "sour," and a noun form, shibumi, which denotes a profound spiritual aspect.
When used in the meaning of sour, the connotation of shibui can refer to either flavor or appearance, as in sour, sullen glances, the latter of which is notably reflected in many noh masks and, until recently, was a facial expression common among many elderly men.
The name "shibushi" originated in the Muromachi period (1336-1573) to describe a sour or astringent taste, similar to an unripe persimmon.
Shibui still maintains this literal meaning, and remains the antonym of amai (甘い), meaning "sweet".
Shibusa's base form is shibu, which means "persimmon juice" - or, on a more subtle level, the astringent flavor of persimmon juice... a taste that has a remarkable resonance with the Japanese perspective of aesthetics and the ideal form of human behavior.
Eliminating the irrelevant in order to make way for what is important. Creating subtle beauty that draws you in to examine each mark and detail.
celebrates naturally existing patterns and rhythms that are intentional rather than accidental.
The concept of controlling balance in a composition by irregularity and asymmetry represents the imperfection that is part of existence.
Shibumi can be seen in a variety of art genres in which simplicity and natural beauty are valued.
Shibui's aesthetic emphasizes subtlety over lavishness, encouraging viewers to interact with items on a deeper level rather than being overwhelmed by apparent beauty.
The concept encourages mindfulness in everyday life, inspiring individuals to appreciate the beauty found in simplicity and the impermanent nature of existence.
Shibui is more than just visual aesthetics; it also includes sound and taste, where restraint and harmony create a full experience.
In literature, shibui influences storytelling by promoting concise language and profound themes that provoke reflection without overt emotional expression.
