Onsen

Welcome

“Onsen – Nothing Matters” Art Exhibition is a One-of-a-Kind art event

inspired by the Enso or Zen Circle. 

44 Artists will bring their own amazing new Enso(s) into the art world. 

Onsen will be open to the public from May 19, 2025 – June 15, 2025

Artist and Media Reception May 22, 2025  5:00 – public 6:00

Colorado Galley of the Arts – 5900 South Santa Fe Drive

Hosted by the ACC Foundation

Ryokan Arts | Orbit Design

Features Outstanding Artists

From Denver Metro, New Mexico, Southern Colorado,

Santa Fe, Los Angeles and New York.

Soundtrack by the “Ryokan Robots”

Immersive Onsen Activities

Schedule:

May 17 – Artwork Installation Day

May 19 – Onsen –  Nothing Matters is open to the public

May 22 – Artist and Media Open Reception   5:00   Public 6:30

June 14 – Closing  Session – Pickup by artist or purchasers.

If you are an artist interested in submitting an entry, please complete the entry form below by April 25. Hurry as nearly all space is filled.

What is an Enso

 The Enso, is known as the Zen Circle of Enlightenment. 

The art of Enso began over 300 years ago as a form of Zen practice. Over the years, artists worldwide have embraced the Enso as a universal symbol.

The closed Enso, suggests completeness, the cycles of nature, and  unity.

The open or broken Enso brings forth the significant aesthetic of wabi-sabi – the beauty of imperfection and the frailty of human existence.

Inside the Enso

An important aspect of the Enso is what’s inside. Nothing? Yes nothing; nowhere, emptiness, zero, space, “mu”.  And nothing does matter, hence the Onsen subtitle “Nothing Matters”. Nothing is where creativity begins. Many artists have stated their best works come out of nowhere. Of course, the circle has a defining role; to be a robust boundary that surrounds, synthesizes, and nourishes creative effort. Emptiness is where we go for art.

“We work with the substantial, but the emptiness is what we use.” – The Tao

The emptiness you feel is not a void; it’s a space for growth. – Unknown

Oh that magic feeling…nowhere to go.  –Lennon, McCartney

Contemporary Enso Art

While the practice of Enso continues in the Zen community, the Enso circles are appreciated in broader artistic circles for their aesthetic possibilities and philosophical depth.

The word Zen may conjure up images of serenity and meditation. Onsen is inclusive of both peaceful serenity and the noisy imaginative edge. Onsen invites artists, if they wish, to run wild.

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On this page are a variety of Enso (most are not actual submissions). They are just samples so you can get started – be influenced or totally ignore them. And remember, all media are accepted – painting, found art, sculpture, video, photography et al. 

FAQ

Q: I am an artist, but I am not Asian.
A: Artist qualifications: You must be Asian, have an Asian partner or have eaten Asian food.

Q: Can I use art I have done in the past or do I need to create a new piece?
A: Both are fine, but please follow the Enzo circular theme. 

Q: What percentage will the sponsor take from the sale of my art?
A: A 35% tax deductible donation to the ACC Foundation to help students. The artist is paid  directly by the buyer.  

Q: I am out of state. Can I ship my art work to you? If it does not sell, can you ship it back to me.
A: Yes. But let’s communicate to make sure we are present to receive your art. Shipping both ways must be at your expense including insurance.

Q: Can I send art with an Asian theme, not necessarily circular?
A: Onsen is not an Asian art show. It is an exploration and expression of the Enso (Zen circle).

Q: My art form is a mobile. Can I hang my art from the ceiling?
A: There are two corners with solid 3 foot triangular supports from which your art may be suspended. We can only hang very light pieces from the track lighting system which is about 10 ft. high.

Q: You say get out of the box. Can I put my Enso on canvas in a frame?
A: Corners are prohibited..…just kidding. Calligraphic Enso is regularly done on flat paper and fabric with corners.

Q: During the showings, will potential buyers be able to contact us directly?
A: Yes. They can even pay you directly. Please respect the beautiful ACC Foundation Gallery and donate the 35% commission which they use to help their students.

Q: How much space can I have for my art?
A:  The gallery is quite large. Tell us what you have in mind.

Q: Will there be an opening reception? Will artists be able to attend.
A: There will be an Opening Reception on May 22nd at 5 for artists and 6 for the public. There will be a Closing Session.  Of course artists are invited to both.

Q: I understand there will be music. Will it be loud?
A: The music will be original Asian American roots music. It will not overwhelm the art.