What's this enso circle design, and why isn't it perfectly round?

You may have noticed that we have a new logo that includes the words "Connect, Create, Transform." That says a lot about us, but it's not the whole story. Why did we pick the iconic Enso Circle as a symbol?

There are so many variations of this old and honored Japanese circle design design that's it's hard to settle on one version. Consistency is vital in branding (that's why we have a new logo that will remain the same on all of our media), but ironically, consistency is not a priority of the Residents inside the Enso Circle. We like wobbly. We like surprises. We appreciate imperfection.

Have you ever tried to draw a traditional Enso Circle with just one brushstroke using ink on paper? It's harder than it looks. Here I am in the video below, giving it a try.

The unique imperfections and contours of each enso are what make it beautiful. This mirrors the residency’s celebration of individuality, where each artist’s distinct voice and creative expression are valued. The community thrives on the diversity and uniqueness of its members, much like the beauty found in the varied forms of the enso.

If we set out to draw a "perfect enso circle", we are missing the point. The act of painting an enso is a reflection of the artist's state at the moment of creation, just like a drop of water falling into a pond. It can't ever be recreated or duplicated. It's just what it is, neither perfect nor imperfect. Sort of like us. And that's a freeing thought - we don't have to live up to anyone's standards of perfection. Like an Enso, we just have to be us in the moment.

Creating an enso (and becoming a Resident) involves letting go of expectations and allowing the hand to move freely. The Residency encourages artists to let go of preconceived notions, embrace spontaneity, and explore new creative territories, fostering an environment of growth and discovery.

The circular form of the enso also symbolizes the cycle of life and the interconnectedness of all things. The Enso Circle residency embodies this through the strong bonds formed among the artists, the shared experiences, and the collective growth that occurs over the twelve weeks.

If you, like the Enso Circle itself, are a bit wobbly, imperfect, and full of surprises, this may be the place for you to  celebrate your uniqueness.

Applications to The Enso Circle Residency open on Wednesday, August 14 and close on Wednesday, August 28th.

Link to our Website

Link to the Application

Link to our Residents' Catalogs from previous terms