Description: "The Bodhi Tree Never Was." Inspired by the classical Chinese motif of the thinking bodhisattva, this figure resembles an abstract tree, appearing contemplative yet subtly portraying the struggle of modern thought. The base is a mirror-like platform from which tree-branch structures emerge, connecting with the figure’s neck and shoulders to form a continuous loop. The fusion of human and tree conveys self-sufficiency and inner light, with a balanced form that holds quiet humour and strong modernist aesthetics. Interpretation: The work draws on the Zen verse by Huineng: “Bodhi originally has no tree, the mirror has no stand...” but shifts toward the existential struggle of modern life. It is not a religious statue, but a “thinker seated like a tree”—a figure enduring modern turmoil through contemplation. With no escape, the thinker must remain rooted like a tree, practicing silent meditation in adversity, generating inner light from within. View more of our Contemporary artworks and Old Masters artworks