Yanagi Muneyoshi’s Philosophy of Aesthetics: The Social Implications of Art from an Adornian Perspective

Rüsch, Markus

Abstract

Yanagi Muneyoshi’s Philosophy of Aesthetics, rooted in Pure Land Buddhism, posits that beautiful objects embody Buddhahood, transcending dualities of pretty and ugly. Yanagi believes true art arises from “non-creation,” free from deliberate action, and draws parallels between this and Pure Land Buddhism’s emphasis on Other-Power salvation. He emphasizes the importance of meaningfully collecting objects for the Art of Tea and highlights the significance of societal relevance and immediate observation. Yanagi’s concept of “immediate observing” emphasizes the need to prioritize objects that can be appreciated by everyone, rejecting elitist perspectives and emphasizing the connection between art and everyday life. Despite differences in philosophical approach, Adorno and Yanagi share similar conceptions of art. Both highlight the importance of observing art from a contemporary perspective, detached from its original context. Yanagi’s concept of the Art of Tea highlights the true beauty of everyday objects, liberated from their functional purposes, as a means of social critique and a rupture from the logic of exchange.