Background of the Artwork:
Once, I visited a Buddhist library on Hangzhou South Road in Taipei City, where a statue of the Thousand-Armed Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) Bodhisattva with a young boy was enshrined. As someone who feels insecure in a chaotic society, I deeply wished to be like Sudhana, staying beside the Guanyin Bodhisattva, receiving her protection, and learning under her guidance.
Buddhism’s founder, Shakyamuni, believed that each person is the master of their own destiny, capable of shaping their fate. One's fortune and misfortune are determined by their efforts and the morality of their actions. "Suffering" and "impermanence" are truths, and "cause and effect" dictate one's circumstances. I chose a Buddhist theme for my artwork because I developed a connection with a Buddhist center in my twenties, became a lay Buddhist by taking refuge and the Five Precepts, and even passed the entrance exam to the Huayan Specialized School of Buddhism in Taipei. At home, I worship Guanyin Bodhisattva and believe that, in some mysterious way, I am blessed by her protection.
Intent of the Artwork:
I aim to use Western materials—water-soluble wax crayons—to depict Sudhana, a character from the Buddhist Avatamsaka Sutra, to convey a modern interpretation of this figure.
Concept of the Artwork:
Sudhana’s Journey of Learning
The Avatamsaka Sutra, in its chapter "Entry into the Dharma Realm," describes Sudhana’s journey to visit various virtuous teachers, ultimately perfecting his Bodhisattva practice. He visited fifty-four virtuous teachers in total! Personally, I have the habit of watching Buddhist television channels and have been influenced by the teachings of Dharma masters. As a result, some of my views differ from those of ordinary people: I do not buy expensive clothes, do not seek out branded bags, and do not aspire to drive luxury cars. I prefer a simple, clean, and modest lifestyle, which might be reflected in the modern version of Sudhana that I create.
