Zen and the Arts have not only a closely-tied but an inseparable relationship like Siamese twins. The reason being Zen absolutely negates the self in the Absolute Being called Buddha and then affirms its Being.

The self once negated is not only the simple limited self but is the manifestation and symbol of Buddha who is esteemed as the Universal Life. When something which cannot be seen or touched is symbolized, it could be the called a magnificent work of art. At this moment, Zen ultimately takes the artistic expression. A work of a Zen priest does not necessarily mean Zen Art. The Art must symbolize the Absolute Void and in true religious sense Zen Art must symbolize Buddha Mind.

From ancient times, the traditional culture of Japan was formed by immersing oneself into an object (the dualism of self and object is transcended). Thus the one creating is the creation and thereby contains the unique characteristics of "wabi" and "sabi." "Wabi" means while being in everyday society, to be apart from it in lonely solitude. "Sabi" signifies the simple, rustic imperfection without decorations. For example, paintings show extremely few strokes. In short, they manifest omission.