Buddhas and Tara
“Buddha and the World”
8"x10" 2004
Polymer clay, paper, beads, and metal leaf
In this depiction, Buddha sits meditating on the World which is supported on the back of a tortoise. The tortoise in Oriental lore is thought to support the earth on its back and symbolizes both eternal life and human longevity.
“Quan Yin”
“She who harkens to the cries of the World.”
8"x10" 2004
Polymer clay, paper, beads, and metal leaf
Quan Yin has been called the “Buddhist Madonna.”
In China, she is a Goddess, Divine Mother and symbol of Divine energy. Like the
Taras, she is the “Goddess of Compassion and Mercy”. She is reluctant to punish and utterly free from pride or vengefulness. She is often shown pouring a stream of healing water, The “Water of Life”, from a vase.
My Quan Yin is surrounded by butterflies. In Greek, the word psyche means both soul and butterfly. It is thought that human souls became butterflies while searching for a new reincarnation.
“Green Tara”
8"x10" 2004
Polymer clay, paper, beads, and metal leaf
(sold)
When the Bodhisattva, Avalokiteshvava*, the “Buddha of Compassion” looked down from heaven on the world of suffering, he wept. Two
Taras** were born from his tears; a peaceful, white one from his left and a playful green one from his right.
Green Tara is the compassionate, wise and quick acting. She is there to help us overcome danger, fears and anxieties. Her right leg, symbolizing compassion, is extended, ready to spring to action. Her left leg, symbolizing wisdom, is folded in the contemplative posture. She is compassion in action.
* The Dali Lama is a reincarnation of Avalokiteshvava.
** Tara is rooted in the word “star”, but the most popular meaning is“she who saves”.
“White Tara”
8"x10" 2004
Polymer clay, paper, beads, and metal leaf
When the Bodhisattva, Avalokiteshvava*, the “Buddha of Compassion” looked down from heaven on the world of suffering, he wept. Two
Taras** were born from his tears; a peaceful, white one from his left and a playful green one from his right.
White Tara is the compassion expressed in that tear. She has seven eyes to enable her to see all suffering and all cries for help. One calls on her for health, strength and longevity. She also helps overcome obstacles on the path to Enlightenment.
* The Dali Lama is a reincarnation of Avalokiteshvava.
** Tara is rooted in the word “star”, but the most popular meaning is“she who saves”.