I drew my first Ensō within the Taogram collection. Then I returned to the famous zen circle again and again, realizing that this ‘symbol of all symbols’ deserves a collection of its own, where I can examine its nature and possibilities.

Drawing ensō is a disciplined-creative practice in Japanese calligraphy and ink painting; usually drawn in one fluid, expressive stroke. The circle may be open or closed. Zen practitioners relate the idea to wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection.

Many Japanese calligrapher exercise ensō drawings on a daily basis throughout their career, as an act of active meditation and also in search of unattainable mastery.

As an ‘ensō-beginner’ one tries hard to create the perfect circle. It’s obviously based on practice and a lot of trials land in the garbage. I draw Ensō (Zen Circles) on a regular bases as a meditative practice, using traditional black ink and also mineral pigments on all kind of different Washi papers.

With time I really learned to appreciate the imperfection, the originality and the individuality of some circles – I still need a big wastepaper basket though.

I have to confess that I’m totally mad about circles and dots, so new artworks and related series will be added continuously.