Madeleine L'Engle: 'I like the fact that in ancient Chinese art the great painters always included a deliberate flaw in their work: human creation is never perfect.'

I like the fact that in ancient Chinese art the great painters always included a deliberate flaw in their work: human creation is never perfect.

Madeleine L'Engle's quote, 'I like the fact that in ancient Chinese art the great painters always included a deliberate flaw in their work: human creation is never perfect,' speaks to the acceptance of imperfection and the acknowledgment that flawlessness is not a requisite for beauty. This concept is a refreshing departure from the prevailing narrative that success and value are inherently linked to flawlessness. The deliberate inclusion of imperfections in ancient Chinese art challenges the idea that perfection is the ultimate goal in creative endeavors. It suggests that imperfections can add depth, character, and a human touch to artistic expressions, making them more relatable and authentic.In considering this notion further, one may delve into an unexpected philosophical concept - the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi is a worldview that embraces imperfection, impermanence, and the beauty of life's transient nature. This concept finds resonance with L'Engle's quote about deliberate flaws in ancient Chinese art, as both emphasize the acceptance and celebration of imperfections in human creations. Wabi-sabi teaches us to find beauty in the imperfect, the incomplete, and the impermanent, recognizing that flaws and irregularities can enhance the overall aesthetic experience.While L'Engle's quote focuses on the deliberate inclusion of flaws in art to convey a sense of imperfection, wabi-sabi extends this idea to a broader perspective on life itself. It suggests that imperfections are not only present in artistic creations but also in the fabric of existence. By embracing imperfection and impermanence, one can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the beauty of life's fleeting moments and the richness of experiences that may not adhere to conventional standards of perfection.In essence, both L'Engle's quote and the philosophy of wabi-sabi compel us to reconsider our notions of perfection and beauty. They invite us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the nuances, imperfections, and complexities that make life and art truly captivating. Just as the deliberate flaws in ancient Chinese art serve to remind us of the inherent imperfection in human creations, wabi-sabi encourages us to find beauty in the imperfect, the transient, and the ever-changing aspects of existence. Embracing imperfection opens up a world of depth and meaning, allowing us to see the beauty in the imperfect brushstrokes of life.