NEW YORK, NY.- “People worship,” says Yu Pan. Today's society is a society of worship, from the worship of idols to the worship of national leaders, worship has penetrated into every aspect of our lives. How to use worship and how to maximise its benefits has become a hot topic, and Yu's project, The Original Vows of Binddha Sutra, explores how the power of worship can be used in specific scenarios to achieve unexpected results when the rules are ineffective.

In the ever-evolving realm of contemporary art, Yu Pan's "The Original Vows of Binddha Sutra" emerges as a groundbreaking piece that interlaces environmental advocacy with deep philosophical musings. By elevating the mundane bin to an object of worship, Pan creates a compelling dialogue about sustainability, reverence, and our interconnected existence.



"The Original Vows of Binddha Sutra" springs from an intriguing question: In an age where recycling and sustainability are heralded, why not venerate the bin? Yu's provocative concept challenges societal norms, transforming the bin into a symbol of ecological reverence. This act of elevating an everyday object to the status of an idol urges viewers to rethink what we value and respect in our lives, particularly in the context of environmental conservation.



The project is deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy, particularly the interdependence expressed in the scripture: "When there is this, that is; with the arising of this, that arises; when there is not this, that is not; with the cessation of this, that ceases." This principle underscores the interconnectedness of all things, a core tenet in Buddhism that Yu adeptly uses to highlight the symbiotic relationship between humans and the environment.



Given Buddhism's significant influence in China, Yu's work resonates deeply with cultural and religious sensibilities. By choosing these four lines as the foundation of his project, he underscores the idea that there is no earth without the environment, and every element of existence is intertwined.



Yu’s artistic execution involves a striking blend of traditional reverence and modern sustainability. One of the project's poignant elements is the performance by a monk reading environmental scriptures in a rubbish pit, where a monk sits atop a lotus throne made from discarded wood and people pass by and stop to pay attention. This juxtaposition of purity and pollution strongly conveys the message that normally invisible piles of rubbish become highly visible with the help of specific characters. It also echoes the idea that rules and regulations are somehow less effective than exploiting people's emotions.



In transforming ordinary bins into objects of worship, Yu likely employs a mixture of religious iconography and contemporary aesthetic elements. This artistic approach not only enhances the visual impact but also deepens the conceptual resonance, creating a sacred space around the bin that invites contemplation and respect. In his own endeavours of worshipful action, we feel the convergence and transmission of power.

"The Original Vows of Binddha Sutra" functions as a cultural critique of modern consumption and waste practices. In a world where sustainability is critical, Yu's work calls for a shift towards mindful living. By venerating the bin, he symbolically elevates the act of recycling, embedding it within the realm of ritualistic practice and daily life. This innovative approach fosters a spiritual connection to environmental responsibility, urging viewers to reconsider their everyday actions and their broader impact on the planet.



Yu Pan's "The Original Vows of Binddha Sutra" transcends conventional artistic boundaries, melding art, philosophy, and environmentalism into a unified, compelling narrative. The project’s foundation in Buddhist principles and its innovative approach to worship and sustainability offer a fresh perspective on our relationship with the environment. By transforming the bin into an idol, Yu challenges us to recognize the sacred in the mundane and the profound interconnectedness of all things. "The Original Vows of Binddha Sutra" is not merely an art installation; it is a clarion call to action, a reminder of our duty towards the planet, and a testament to the transformative power of art.