Using ink in a painting is pretty much a forced surrender.  The ink cannot be controlled, nor can it be completely covered. Like an old hurt deeply buried, ink returns - seeping up through gesso and acrylic paint, regardless of the number of layers.  A reminder of what came before, and the need to embrace all that is our experience, even the parts we wish to bury.  Ink becomes a lesson in making lemonade of lemons.  Who knew certain art supplies mandate a personal archeological dig?

There is one aspect of the enso process I truly enjoy - vocal painting.  The more theatrical of the enso painters use large brushes (imagine brooms) and martial arts stances, along with guttural growls and shouts.  Now DO try this at home!  There is something delightfully mischievous about shouting and growling as you paint circles with big arm gestures.  Not to mention the looks you get from certain family members wandering by your studio door...though it might be more impressive if I weren't in a flowery bathrobe and pajamas.  

And speaking of physicality in artistry, here is a previously unreleased recording of Prince, along with a video montage of his incredible dance moves to start your week off right.