Shadow puppet of a red lotus

The lotus flower is symbolically significant and sacred in many regions of Asia as well as in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Daoism. Representing purity and independence, the flower grows out of muddy ponds and floats peacefully above the waters. Made up of layers of hide dyed in gradient tones, this red lotus was once used in a shadow puppet play, a popular form of entertainment in traditional China. With its loose petals arranged one over another and connected via a wire, the flower can turn into a full blossom in the air by controlling the long metal stick at its bottom.

In Buddhism, the red lotus is often associated with the bodhisattva of infinite compassion and mercy (Avalokiteshvara), who hears the suffering of the world and saves devotees from troubles and sicknesses. Especially during the global pandemic, the lotus imagery of strength, resilience, and hope remains even more poignant, which is why it was chosen for the signage relating to the Asian Art Museum’s reopening. Rising above all that is happening now—amidst the health, political, economic, and environmental challenges—the lotus is born from muddy circumstances but stays unstained and lives elegantly.