Have you ever heard of the term “天衣無縫 Ten’i Muho (seamless as celestial garments)”?
It describes a person's natural and innocent demeanor or the natural yet beautiful quality of poetry and prose. In both cases, the beauty lies not in what is crafted but in the natural elegance that's inherent. That is exactly what I aim for as a calligrapher.
As I've mentioned before, I don't belong to any specific school of calligraphy, meaning I'm essentially free to do as I please. However, when I encounter exceptionally stunning works by others, I always find myself humbled by their perfect control, the elegance of their brushwork, and the beauty of their forms. This fixation can be so intense that it inhibits my ability to write freely, leading to a frustrating spiral of imposter complex, where I feel incapacitated by my own skills.But then I realize that it is stifling my greatest asset: my freedom.
So, what's needed to achieve this “Ten’i Muho” state? Firstly, it's about introspection and deeply understanding oneself, acknowledging one's strengths, weaknesses, and passions with courage. Secondly, it's about letting go of fear and believing in one's sensibilities. Fear distances us from growth and depletes creativity.
Continued learning and practice are also key. By honing our skills and knowledge, we expand our expressive range and, through practice, refine our sensibilities and technique, moving closer to authentic self-expression.
Sure, it's easier said than done, especially when confronting personal barriers. But what's crucial is the courage to take that step forward, for on the other side of those barriers lies your unique “Ten’i Muho” state. Ignore your brain’s negative whispering; listen to your heart and let it guide you to true beauty.
Interestingly, the term “Ten’i Muho” originates from an old Chinese tale about the seamless garments of celestial beings, symbolizing smoothness and naturalness untouched by human hands. Modern technology, like WHOLEGARMENT knitting, allows for the creation of seamless clothing. I still remember the awe I felt seeing such a sweater for the first time. Perhaps, in the future, seamless garments will become the norm. Despite technological advancements, the pursuit of natural beauty remains the essence of the “Ten’i Muho” spirit. Believing in the natural beauty within and boldly expressing it might just be the path we should all aspire to.
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