Australian Sangha Association Statement about
the ‘Eternity-Buddha in Nirvana’ Exhibit
at the National Gallery of Victoria

The Australian Sangha Association (ASA) was informed that the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) will be soon displaying a giant Chinese Buddha exhibit called ‘Eternity-
Buddha in Nirvana’. We welcome that Buddhist art is on display at the National Gallery and acknowledge the great efforts in purchasing and installing the massive reclining Buddha artwork. Let alone the time it must have taken the Chinese artist Xu Zhen in creating it.

We are aware that the arrangement which was chosen by the artist – with some smaller
figures on top of the reclining Buddha image – might offend some Buddhists and be
regarded as culturally insensitive. The ASA is concerned about the reaction it might cause, as some boundaries might be pushed a bit too far by art. However, we do not support any protesting but rather encourage tolerance. Many Buddhists and the general public will hopefully be awestruck, rather than offended. They might even become curious to find out more about the sculptures, which are part of the installation, and about the intentions of the artist as a result.

The Buddha statue and the values it represents – forgiveness, peace, compassion and
detachment – are certainly more grand, grounded and peaceful than any possible irritation or hurt. Furthermore, according to the NGV the artist is hoping to bring about
understanding and appreciation across cultures with his creation.

We hope that the people who come and view the ‘Eternity-Buddha in Nirvana’ at the NGV
will be uplifted and inspired by this giant artwork and by the deeper values which the
gigantic Buddha image represents.

Ajahn Brahmavamso – Founding Chair of the Australian Sangha Association (ASA);
Liaison Officer for the ASA and the Federation of Buddhist Councils (FABC)
and
The Australian Sangha Association Committee
6 December, 2017