Final answer:
Japanese art focuses on simplicity, influenced by Zen philosophy, and has had a significant impact on minimalist design. Traditional aspects, such as Ukiyo-e prints and Nihonga paintings, exhibit this aesthetic and moral philosophy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The focus of Japanese art is deeply rooted in the philosophy of simplicity, a concept influenced by Zen philosophy and aesthetics. This form of simplicity goes beyond mere aesthetic value; it also carries a moral perception that emphasizes the nature of truth and exposes the purity and inherent qualities of materials and objects. An example can be found in the dry rock garden at the Ryoanji Temple, where simplicity is exemplified through the deliberate placement of stones and the expansive empty space around them.
Japanese traditional design and architecture have contributed significantly to the minimalist design movement, as have the principles of De Stijl artists, who emphasized the use of basic elements like lines and planes. Another aspect of Japanese aesthetics, illustrated through the tea ceremony and the emphasis on fleeting beauty, such as in cherry blossoms, calls for mindful attention to the beauty in everyday life, which fosters a moral and religious journey of self-cultivation.
Ukiyo-e, or woodblock prints, showcase the wide-ranging subjects of Japanese art which include landscapes, everyday life, and nature. These prints capture not only the aesthetic values but also offer an escape from the mundane, 'floating world' of transience. Moreover, traditional techniques like Nihonga paintings, which utilize natural materials, reflect a connection to over a thousand years of artistic heritage.