Wabi-Sabi Mood

Wabi-sabi, the ancient philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection, is a core component of Japanese art and culture. However, the rise of modernity threatens to overshadow this timeless aesthetic, as the mass-market home décor industry reduces its essence. Simplifying wabi-sabi into a mere trend confines its true meaning. The authors, inspired by architect Kengo Kuma, explore his concept of "modern wabi-sabi." Their travels across India, Europe, and Morocco reveal the profound impact of wabi-sabi and how it highlights Japan's subtle yet strong influence worldwide. During their journey through Japan, they met a new generation dedicated to preserving and promoting this philosophy—true ambassadors of wabi-sabi. From shared moments in a teahouse to numerous quiet joys, they fully embraced the wabi-sabi experience. They aim to convey this feeling to others, inviting everyone to understand its beauty. This work is a blend of travel journal, photo book, and collection of stories. Anne-Emmanuelle Thion, a traveling photographer, and Thierry Grundman, an antiques dealer and founder of Atmosphère d’Ailleurs and the Wabi-Sabi Lab, present a modern, cross-cultural perspective on wabi-sabi by connecting with those who live by its principles today. The text is in English and French.