Title: HH14: portrait of the Dalai Lama
Material: Oil on canvas
Size: 48×30
Year: 2016

“There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our is our temple; my philosophy is kindness.” — The Dalai Lama

His Holiness is shown here in his maturity but wearing the vestments of a very young monk. The center of the painting is anchored by his heart and, by extension, his praying hands. His slightly eccentric attitude suggests his capacity for playfulness. The background depicts Tibet’s flag, complete with its only 3 borders of gold.