Oil pastels and colored pencils on paper

In my painting 'The Alignment of Three Religions,' I explore the intersection of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism through my personal experience as a Vietnamese woman. I challenge traditional representations of religious figures by depicting three female characters as the embodiments of these three major religions. This choice is a reflection of my identity as a woman and a statement about the visibility and representation of women in religious and cultural contexts.

I used colored pencils and oil pastels to nod to the Naive art movement, which has always inspired me. The childlike wonder and charm of this style emphasize my lifelong connection to these three religions, which have influenced me since I was a child. By placing the three figures in a harmonious alignment, I symbolize my belief in the potential for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among different faiths.

Through this self-portrait, I explore the complex relationships between culture, faith, and identity. By depicting myself as the embodiment of these three religions, I challenge the viewer's assumptions about religion and gender and celebrate the diversity and richness of the human experience. 'The Alignment of Three Religions' is not just a painting, but a reflection of my own journey and exploration of self.

May 26, 2023.