Creating a rupa or form of a Buddha is both a privilege and responsibility. Every aspect of the Buddha’s form is a teaching about the vast powers of the Buddha, so one must not stray from the traditional proportions, or the teachings therein will be lost. Also, it is not auspicious to ever disparage even a representation of a Buddha. Thus, the artist must take care not to create a cause for anyone to make a careless remark as to lack of beauty, etc. There are listings in the training books for artisits of dire consequences of any missteps. At the same time, much remains an artistic challenge. How can the curve of the lip suggest compassion? How can western design principles add to the genre? As a practitioner, how can the work become meditation?

It was quite a challenge to cast in a small cabin with no running water, especially in mid-winter. Dry plaster is mixed with water and built up in layers on top of the sculpture. The mold is taken off and the clay removed, becoming ordinary lumps in a pail again. Then fresh plaster is poured into the mold, creating new sculpture. This was shipped to the foundry in a specially designed crate. We all liked the final version so much that a second bronze was ordered for the shrine room. The bronzes were filled with mantras of Gampopa, precious stones and blessing pills.

A lot of letting go is in the nature of making sculpture. I certainly enjoyed using my skills, but the sculpture is not my creation. It is a teaching vehicle. Gampopa founded Kagyu monasticism when monasticism was waning. He had perfect devotion to his teacher Milarepa. His compassion for all beings carried through arduous disciplines leading to enlightenment. Thus he wear’s monk’s robes, has Mahamudra gaze and holds a wish fulfilling jewel in his hands.

We have few opportunities in life that we know are positive and contribute to the Enlightenment of others. How wonderful to have spent the year well. May this statue inspire all who see it to follow in Gampopa’s footsteps to Enlightenment.

Article Reproduced from The Lion's Roar- July, 2000

Learn more about the background on the Creation of the Gampopa Statue