Wabi Sabi

It is hard to explain

Wikipedia tells us that the current meaning of Wabi connotes rustic simplicity, freshness or quietness, and can be applied to both natural and human-made objects, or understated elegance. It can also refer to quirks and anomalies arising from the process of construction, which add uniqueness and elegance to the object. Sabi is said to be beauty or serenity that comes with age, when the life of the object and its impermanence are evidenced in its patina and wear, or in any visible repairs.

The book, Wabi Sabi by Mark Reibstein  (Author), Ed Young (Illustrator), says that wabi sabi is a way of seeing the world and allows us to experience that feeling by following the journey of a little cat who sets out to find the meaning of her name.

In their own words

I very much enjoyed the book, even though I sense that my mind is wired such that I may not fully grasp a philosophy that is so deeply rooted in another culture. But, perhaps, that is wabi sabi in itself.

Anyway, I also suggest watching this short video of the author and artist talking about the process of creating the book.

Enjoy

Food Friday

Two Photos I Really Like

The theme of my Photo-A-Day project this year is "Notice the Ordinary", which was inspired by a quote from Charles and Ray Eames. I had in the back of my mind that it should not include any food photography as that was the premise I used for last year. But, that idea went out the window in a hurry. Then this week I came up with two photos that I think I really nailed and feel compelled to post on this blog.

Vegetarian Noodle Bowl

Vegetarian Noodle Bowl: photo by Cliff Hutson

This is one of those times I am probably feeling too pleased with myself. No recipe was used, I just took what I had on hand and tossed it together in proportions that seemed right to me. It is a real fusion, too. The soba noodles are presumably Japanese, but these were made in China. The soy sauce is a Japanese brand, but the plant is in Wisconsin. And, zucchini and string beans are not very Asian. But, that is OK as I sautéed them instead of doing a stir fry.

Santa Barbara Salad

Santa Barbara Salad: photo by Cliff Hutson

There is nothing too imaginative about this; a mixture of Escarole, Endive, and Radicchio lettuce with tomato and Feta cheese. But, I like the lighting and the depth of field. It was very tasty, as well. 

September 2015 Reading List

The books I finished reading in September 2015

September 2015 Reading: photo by Cliff Hutson