It was with great pleasure that I set off a small U.K. tour of my three sculptured panel depicting the Life of Buddha.

Panel 1 entitled ‘Following His Heart’, depicts a younger Buddha embarking on his true path as his enlightenment begins. The energies of light and truth are filtering down, symbolising his momentous decision to follow his heart, leaving behind his privileged life in the palace.

Panel 2 entitled ‘Buddha’s Enlightenment’, depicts the middle period of the prophet Buddha’s Life, as he reaches full enlightenment. The rich flowers positioned down the side of his face are in full bloom ,showing their abundant glory. The evidence of poverty and hardship suffered on his journey depicted by his textured face is diminished by the enlightened orbs at his brow, showing his true inner state.

Panel 3 entitled ‘Buddha’s Peace’
This image shows Buddha as he reaches the latter period of his life. The rich gold flowers have turned into brown and terracotta leaves, you could call it the Autumn of his life. His work is done, wisdom and age brings full contentment bliss and peace.

Sept 19th – ‘5th Oct 2009

The first Exhibition was launch on World Peace Day – 21st September, this was linked to a small group marking the day at the Buddhist Peace pagoda in Milton Keynes, this simple but delightful ceremony was very thought provoking and was organised by Brenda Lowe.

Oct 10th -30th Oct 2009

The Second Exhibition was at Hitchin Museum Gallery entitled ‘The Wisdom of Peace’ This one man exhibition was very successful and the preview night was started off with poet Steve Thorp reading extracts from his ‘Life ‘Collection with many of his poems linking to the wisdom of man in regards to his relationship with earth.

Not only could the visitors visit the gallery space exhibiting 20 of my pictures, they could also move into the poetry room and read Steve’s poems enlarged on corex panels creating a wonderful room of words. This lovely evening was finished off with a candle lit peace gathering held outside in the18th Century healing garden, and a powerful reading of the global peace prayer by Vanessa Edwards and the playing of Imagine by John Lennon. WONDERFUL.

Steve Thorpe website www.creativethorp.com
Vanessa Edwards website www.vandaehworks.co.uk