ACCIDENTAL ENSO
The ensō is a circular symbol most often painted in a single brush stroke. The word itself translates to “circle” in Japanese. It embodies one of the defining aspects of Zen Buddhism, no-mind, where one is free from thoughts and emotions while being completely present in the now. It is believed that while in this state of total presence, true creativity can arise. Some Zen Buddhists believe that the character of the artist is fully exposed in how she or he draws an ensō. Some artists will practice drawing an ensō daily, as a kind of Spiritual Practice. For me, finding and photographing these unintentional ensōs is a form of spiritual practice.
Hollyhock Shower Stall, Cortez Island, British Columbia (made with plastic toy
Window, Chicago Botanic Garden, Illinois
Side of Barn, Ramsey County, Minnesota
Carpet and Screws, Abandoned Greenhouse, White Bear Lake, Minnesota
Water Meter, Snowmass, Colorado
Hula Hoop, Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon
Wall of Building, Honolulu, Hawaii
Rice Basket, Xizhou, China
Fabric Dying Bucket, Dali, China
Stucco Wall, Xizhou, China
Wall of East/West Center, Honolulu, Hawaii
Large Drum in Buddhist Monasery, Tibet
Log, Brandt Pines, Wisconsin
Chair with Hula-hoop, Rockport, Maine
Door Knocker, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Ring in Dirt, Hopi Mesa, Arizona
Northwest Coast, Ireland
Jar in Bushes at Potters House, Kyoto, Japan
Taylor's Falls Boat Ramp, Minnesota
Decaying Halloween Pumpkin, Saint Paul, Minnesota