n o m u d , n o l o t u s
Original Art
no mud, no lotus
In nature, the lotus flower grows natively in the muddy bottoms of ponds, rivers, and swamps.
The mud provides an anchor and nutrients that help the lotus flowers survive and bloom.
The phrase “No mud, no lotus” popularized by Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thích Nhất Hạnh reminds us that the challenges and pain in life (the mud) is what is necessary to cultivate growth, wisdom, and inner peace (the lotus).
The artworks speak to this concept in its use of dark blue and indigo around the lotus flowers to symbolize the murky opaqueness of mud. But it is through the dark, blue paint in which the lotus emerges - a reminder that one does not exist without the other.
Original Art
Watercolor paint and graphite on luxurious, handmade, cotton paper
4.25” x 6.25” artwork in 8”x10” natural solid wood frame, ready to hang
“No mud, no lotus”
Framed original art, $150, SOLD
This piece reminds us that in the darkness of pain and suffering that is inevitable to life, we can find resilience, ease, and beauty by embracing our inner lotus.
Currently exhibited in a group art show and available for purchase at the Lan Su Chinese Garden Jul 3 - Aug 22, 2026
“In the path of the lotus”
Framed original art, $150, SOLD
Our blossoming and becoming does not happen without challenges. Experience can yield wisdom. Pain can encourage compassion.
Available for purchase here.