Zen Bull 

Editor: This is “Zen Bull” by Kogan Gengei, done with ink on paper. It's quite striking how minimal it is. It looks like one continuous brushstroke creates the entire bull, which is coiled in on itself. What's your take on it? Curator: The single, unbroken line is central to its impact. In Zen Buddhism, this is enso, a circle that represents emptiness, fullness, the infinite, the universe itself. The bull, typically a symbol of power, is here captured within this concept of enso. The symbolism reflects not only brute strength, but also all existence and void simultaneously. How does this pose make you feel? Editor: It feels kind of self-contained and peaceful, even though bulls are often seen as aggressive. The shape almost feels fetal, like it's withdrawn into itself. Is that sense of peace something typical in Zen art? Curator: That’s an astute observation. The bull's containment within the enso could evoke the meditative practice of focusing inward, finding stillness within oneself. Bulls were the symbol of agricultural prosperity. What tension is introduced when that cultural value merges with this particular abstract representation? Editor: It suggests a shift, maybe? A move from tangible prosperity to something more internal, spiritual? It is about inner peace more than just material abundance. Curator: Precisely. The cultural memory associated with the bull—wealth, virility, the mundane—is intentionally reframed through the symbolic language of Zen. It reflects humanity's capacity to transcend physical form. So, what resonates most with you about how Gengei uses this symbolism? Editor: It is that unexpected connection between raw power and perfect peace. It’s like he has captured how opposite things complete one another. Curator: The interplay highlights the potential for transformation. Seeing cultural symbols through new lenses can change everything. Editor: Absolutely, I am beginning to notice how tradition and innovation merge in the piece. Curator: This type of symbolism can alter perspective about even the mundane of every day.