Artists traditionally portray the Buddha in particular poses. After taking a close look at the way this sculpture presents the Buddha, think about how you would have sculpted the rest of him. Now sketch out your ideas. Consider the ways that different poses, gestures, clothing, props, and compositions can express ideas, feelings, or characteristics of the Buddha.

Follow these links to learn more about traditional ways of representing the Buddha:

Mudras - symbolic hand gestures
www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/history/mudras.htm

Lotus - a flower and symbol of purity and blossoming spiritual life
www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/history/b_lotus.htm

Eight Auspicious Symbols
www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/history/b8symbol.htm

Poses
In addition to standing, the Buddha is often shown in one of these common poses. There are many variations of these postures.
www.east-asian-history.net/textbooks/480/graphics/ch9/01.jpg

After making your own sketch, see how some other artists have portrayed the Buddha:

www.metmuseum.org/toah/hi/hi_rebs.htm

Compare your sketch with your research. How do they relate? What are the similarities? Differences? What techniques have these artists used to make the most of the three-dimensional format of sculpture? Try making a 3D version of your idea using clay.