On the Creation of Buddha Figurines and the Zen of Everyday Living

Many artists are drawn to the spiritual depth of Buddhism. In my younger years, I came to know Buddhist philosophy through reading, and naturally became acquainted with the imagery of Buddha. Within Buddhist rituals, Dharma and the figure of Buddha are inseparable.

After I began working with glass, I started creating Buddha sculptures—hoping that through the interaction of material and light, I could shape sacred images imbued with delicate softness, like threads of silk woven into form. The translucent, mist-like purity of glass revealed a serene radiance—expressing both compassion and the solemnity of faith.

Later, I was fortunate to create Buddhist pieces for Dharma Drum Mountain and Tzu Chi Foundation. These opportunities allowed me to explore Buddha-themed works more deeply. Eventually, I formally took refuge under Master Cheng Yen and Master Sheng Yen, two profound guiding lights on my journey.

 

After turning to porcelain, I discovered even greater potential for expression. The smooth whiteness and refined craftsmanship of porcelain offered a new way to convey sacredness—infusing Buddha sculptures with a sense of movement and transcendence rarely seen.

The idea of “bringing Buddhism into daily life, and letting daily life reflect Buddhist wisdom” continues to guide me. Today, the practice of Buddhism is no longer just about chanting, worship, incense, or seclusion—it has become something that emerges through acts of kindness, social engagement, and mindful living. That spirit of gratitude, simplicity, contentment, and understanding—becomes the heart of creation. In my sculptures, I incorporate elements of life: approachable, human, and artistic. My hope is that through the Buddha figure, people will feel the teachings—not just revere an idol.

Take for instance the porcelain work “Boundless” (晴空萬里). Supported by advanced porcelain techniques, it brings forth a poetic form that glass could never quite capture. The Buddha is seated on one leg, light as a wisp of smoke, as if embodying the concept of “emptiness”—the state of letting go. Underneath the serenity and compassion of the figure, a graceful posture conveys a heart unburdened, a mind at peace. The use of pure white deepens this message—expanding into the limitless clarity of a boundless sky.

In “Motionless Splendor” (不動莊嚴), the dynamic, floating ribbon—fired through an extremely challenging porcelain technique—contrasts beautifully with the Buddha seated at the center. This interplay of stillness and motion evokes the power of calm dignity. Under the pure light and shadows, the sculpture radiates the unbounded purity of Dharma.

One Buddhist teaching continues to guide my creative state of mind:

“Let your mind arise without dwelling anywhere.”

This phrase reminds me not to cling, not to judge, not to follow fixed paths. Only when the heart is clear and free can true creativity emerge.

Whether it is compassion that gives rise to joy, or joy that flows from compassion, both bring positive energy to life and work. This union of compassion and joy is at the heart of Buddhist teaching. Internally, it leads to calm and clarity in the act of creation. Externally, it fosters harmony, empathy, and mutual understanding in all environments.

Buddhism brings us back to our natural essence—

The clarity of insight,

The joyful cycle of kindness and karma,

The poised beauty of great compassion.

Through every piece I create, I hope to express this spirit—with pure color, auspicious symbols, elements of daily life, faces of kindness, and joyful forms—shaping a dignified presence that resonates with the compassion within us all.

“The moon reflects in every river.”

Dharma is everywhere, and so is joy.

May each Buddha sculpture become a vessel for goodness, inspiring moments of harmony wherever it is placed.

—Heinrich Wang

Autumn 2022, Beitou