Josh is a self-taught professional photographer who is known for his captivating imagery of Buddha statues. His work has graced book and magazine covers, reflecting his dedication to the craft and his heartfelt tribute to his late mother through his photography.

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Josh Bulriss

<h4 style="text-align:justify;">JOSH BULRISS is the professional photographer behind The Buddha Project, an initiative capturing unique Buddha imagery across the world. In this photo essay, Josh maps out Buddha’s influence in history, spirituality, art, and culture, a testament to the universality of Buddhism.</h4>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp" alt="diverse-faces-buddha1.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/diverse_faces_buddha1_ae818b8ece.webp 1260w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Dambulla Cave Temple, Columbo, Sri Lanka</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;Buddhism is one of the world’s major religions, with a rich and diverse history that spans over two millennia. We can trace its origins back to the 6th century BCE India when Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, spread his teachings. As Buddhism expanded across the Asian continent, it underwent a fascinating transformation, adapting to the rich cultural, artistic, and spiritual tapestries of the regions it encountered. One of the most visible manifestations of this adaptation is the wide array of Buddha statues found throughout Asia. These statues not only represent the essence of Buddhism, but also embody the unique artistic expressions, historical influences, and cultural diversities of the countries where they are found.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp" alt="Bagan, Myanmar.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bagan_Myanmar_f23ffccf05.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Bagan, Myanmar</figcaption></figure><h4>Cultural adaptation</h4>Buddhism’s journey across Asia was not merely a religious diffusion but also a profound cultural fusion. As it spread to different countries, it blended seamlessly with local customs, beliefs, and artistic traditions. The result was a breathtaking array of Buddha statues that epitomize the specific cultural and artistic sensibilities of each region. In China, Buddha statues may bear distinct Chinese facial features and traditional clothing. In Japan, they may incorporate Japanese aesthetics and design elements, reflecting the harmony between Buddhism and Japanese culture.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp" alt="Marble Mountains Am Phu Cave Hoi An, Vietnam.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Marble_Mountains_Am_Phu_Cave_Hoi_An_Vietnam_ddd8925d50.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Marble Mountains Am Phu Cave, Hoi An, Vietnam</figcaption></figure><h4>Artistic expression</h4>As Buddhism took root in various regions, local artists and sculptors contributed their unique perspectives to the portrayal of Buddha. This has led to variations in poses, expressions, and attire. Additionally, various cultures place emphasis on specific aspects of Buddha’s life, such as his role as a teacher or healer, giving rise to distinct representations. Thus, Buddha statues are not just religious icons but artistic masterpieces, showcasing the boundless creativity of humanity.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp" alt="China, Northern Qi dynasty Cleavland, Ohio Cleavland Museum of Art.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/China_Northern_Qi_dynasty_Cleavland_Ohio_Cleavland_Museum_of_Art_1907bfcf45.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>China, Northern Qi Dynasty, Cleavland Museum of Art, Ohio</figcaption></figure><h4>Symbolism</h4>Buddha statues are abundant with symbolic elements that are regionally meaningful. In Sri Lanka they often feature a distinctive “flame” atop the Buddha’s head, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment. In Southeast Asia, they often feature mudras (hand postures) with specific meanings. These symbols are rooted in local belief systems, enhance the spiritual significance of the statues, and deepen their connection to the culture from which they emerge.<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">These statues not only represent the &nbsp;essence of Buddhism, but also embody the unique artistic expressions, historical influences, and cultural diversities of the countries where they are found.</h4><hr><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp" alt="Nong Khai, Thailand .webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Nong_Khai_Thailand_4fc05a0e9f.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Nong Khai, Thailand</figcaption></figure><h4 style="text-align:justify;">Regional influences</h4>Local deities and mythological figures have also left their mark on the Buddha statues. Over time, these figures have become intertwined with the representation of Buddha, contributing to the rich tapestry of Asian Buddhist art. In some cases, Buddha statues may be merged with regional deities or given attributes specific to the area, resulting in a unique blend of religious and cultural elements.<h4 style="text-align:justify;">Local devotion</h4>The manner in which Buddha is revered can vary significantly from one Buddhist tradition to another. This variation has a direct impact on the portrayal of Buddha in statues. Theravada Buddhism emphasizes a different facet of Buddha’s life to Mahayana Buddhism. These variations in worship give rise to differences in the statues, reflecting the diverse spiritual practices within Buddhism itself.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp" alt="Bali,Indonesia.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Bali_Indonesia_09f3f7f3f4.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Bali,Indonesia</figcaption></figure><h4>Materials and iconography</h4>The materials available in a particular region and the symbolism associated with the specific school of Buddhism also shape the statues. Some cultures use materials that are abundant in their area, leading to variations in texture and appearance. Iconography varies as well, with Theravada Buddhism often depicting Buddha as more human, while Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes his transcendental or celestial characteristics.<h4>Historical influences</h4>Historical events and politics have played a pivotal role in the portrayal of the Buddha in art. During periods of persecution, Buddhist art became more abstract to avoid overtly religious symbols. These historical influences have left their mark on the evolution of Buddha statues and the adaptability of Buddhism in different cultural and political contexts.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp" alt="Delhi,India Greco-Buddhist art .webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Delhi_India_Greco_Buddhist_art_fa4fb8827c.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Greco-Buddhist Art, Delhi,India</figcaption></figure><h4>A fusion of cultures</h4>The cross-cultural exchange and adaptation is most striking in Greco-Buddhist sculptures, also known as Gandharan art. These emerged during a period of cultural exchange and syncretism between the Greek-influenced regions of Central Asia and the Buddhist areas of India, particularly during the time of the Greco-Bactrian and Indo-Greek kingdoms from the 3rd century B.C.E. to the 1st century C.E.The interaction between Greek and Indian cultures in the region that is now Pakistan and Afghanistan led to the creation of Greco-Buddhist art. Alexander the Great’s conquests brought Hellenistic influences to Central Asia, which eventually merged with the existing Buddhist traditions in the area.Greco-Buddhist sculptures are known for their distinctive stylistic fusion. They often feature the idealized, naturalistic anatomy of Greek sculptures combined with the serene, spiritual expressions of Buddhist art.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp" alt="Sukhothai, Thailand.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Sukhothai_Thailand_369a355f53.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Sukhothai, Thailand</figcaption></figure><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">They serve as a vivid reminder that spirituality and culture are intertwined in complex and beautiful ways, evolving over time to create a rich tapestry of human expression and belief.</h4><hr><h4>The tradition of face painting</h4>Nepal is renowned for its distinctive and unique approach to depicting Buddha statues, particularly for adding face paint in vibrant colors and intricate designs, enhancing the cultural and artistic diversity found throughout the region. This Nepalese practice further exemplifies the dynamic relationship between spirituality and art in the world of Buddhism.<h4 style="text-align:justify;">The diverse faces of the Buddha</h4>The diverse faces of the Buddha in art are a testament to the adaptability and universality of Buddhism. They serve as a vivid reminder that spirituality and culture are intertwined in complex and beautiful ways, evolving over time to create a rich tapestry of human expression and belief. Buddha statues across Asia not only reflect the essence of Buddhism but also encapsulate the cultural richness of their respective regions, showcasing the boundless creativity of humanity and the adaptability of this ancient tradition.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp" alt="Kathmandu, Nepal.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp 145w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/large_Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp 1000w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/Kathmandu_Nepal_66e2650b32.webp 2000w," sizes="100vw"><figcaption>Kathmandu, Nepal</figcaption></figure><hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Photography by JOSH BULRISS</h4><hr>

The diverse faces of the Buddha

JOSH BULRISS is a traveling photographer. Before heading to Thailand for the Buddha Project, he had no idea that he would find a soul mate for his travels. This is the story of Josh and Tara, entwined with photography and the Buddha.After the passing of my mother in 2014, I decided to embark on a focused photography project called the Buddha Project. The aim was to discover and photograph some of the world’s most intriguing and unique statues and temples, capturing their essence. With a deep-rooted interest in traveling Asia and photographing subjects that evoke a sense of peace, this project held a special significance. My mother had always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. She would have been thrilled to witness their realization.The plan was to begin in Thailand, the gateway to Southeast Asia. Given the extensive time I had spent there, I knew it would serve as the perfect starting point. The country boasts an abundance of breathtaking temples and ancient statues, offering an incredible opportunity for photography. Recognizing the potential benefits of a local guide, I sought assistance from the local community through a chat site. To my delight, the first person I contacted agreed to help me explore Bangkok for a couple of days. The more we conversed, the more our travel plans expanded. Eventually, we decided to embark on a three-week journey across central Thailand.<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together3.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp 234w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together3_7ea8ff9e3b.webp 750w," sizes="100vw">Polunawara, Sri Lanka<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together4.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp 233w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together4_f8ef1e45a4.webp 750w," sizes="100vw">Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together5.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp 219w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together5_7128533e24.webp 750w," sizes="100vw">Marble Mountain Da Nang, Vietnam&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together6_da269625df.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together6.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together6_da269625df.webp 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together6_da269625df.webp 333w," sizes="100vw">Ayutthaya, ThailandUpon landing in Bangkok, I anticipated meeting Tararat. Initially, we spent a couple of days exploring the city before setting out to discover the small towns and villages scattered throughout this ancient Buddhist country.The joy we experienced while traveling together was unparalleled, leading us to decide that we would venture into north-eastern Thailand after I returned from Myanmar. There were countless places to explore and each new destination only fueled our desire to keep going. We ventured across north-eastern Thailand, extending our journey over the next couple of years into Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Nepal, and India. We have no intention of halting this project, as there is still so much left to discover and capture.On May 3, 2019, Tara and I exchanged vows in a magical moment in Bangkok, initiating the beautiful journey of marriage.In December 2019, we led our first successful tour across seven provinces in central Thailand, sharing the breathtaking beauty of our favorite Buddhist sites with others. The experience left us eager and hopeful to lead more tours.As we transitioned into the new year of 2020, we embarked on a profound three-week journey venturing deep into the heart of India, accompanied by a Theravada Buddhist monk. This expedition was one of the most transformative experiences of our lives. We explored ancient Buddhist sites that held immense historical and spiritual significance. We had the privilege of visiting Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath, where Buddha imparted his teachings during his first ceremony. We explored Kaushambi, where Buddha spent his 6th and 9th rainy seasons. It was an awe-inspiring experience to walk in the footsteps of such profound wisdom and enlightenment.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together2.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp 217w, https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp 500w, https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together2_b17bf7e4a7.webp 750w" sizes="100vw"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together7_09a81bd6e4.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together7.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together7_09a81bd6e4.webp 104w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together7_09a81bd6e4.webp 333w," sizes="100vw"></figure>Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, IndiaDuring our travels, we encountered relics and precious artifacts that held a deep spiritual resonance. We marveled at some of the oldest Buddha statues in existence, dating back to the first century. These majestic statues bore witness to centuries of devotion and represented the timeless impact of Buddha’s teachings.Our journey through India was life-changing, an opportunity to connect with the roots of Buddhism and to deepen our understanding of the path Buddha paved centuries ago. After returning to Thailand, the world was on the brink of a global shutdown due to the Covid pandemic. As the situation unfolded, I made the difficult decision to return to America in March 2020, where I began the necessary paperwork for Tara’s journey to join me. Tara landed in Rochester, NY, on July 16, 2021, marking the beginning of a new chapter together.Over the past two years, the Buddha Project has led us to museums across the United States, and we’ve been privileged to explore the beauty of numerous sites, discovering wonders we might never have otherwise encountered. As we press forward, our unwavering pursuit of the world’s most unique and intriguing Buddhas continues, a testament to the path that united us and a guiding light toward the future.<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">As we press forward, our unwavering pursuit of the world’s most unique and intriguing Buddhas continues, a testament to the path that united us and a guiding light toward the future.</h4><hr><img src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp" alt="how-buddha-bought-us-together8.webp" srcset="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/thumbnail_how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp 245w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/small_how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp 500w,https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/medium_how_buddha_bought_us_together8_b8147b920e.webp 750w," sizes="100vw">Inle Lake, Myanmar<hr><h4 style="text-align:center;">Photographs by JOSH BULRISS</h4><hr>

How the Buddha brought us together

The goal of the Buddha Project was to find and photograph some of the most unique and beautiful
 Buddha statues throughout Asia: those that are unique in color, decay or texture, and have something that set
 them apart. This 6,000 mile journey led me through six countries, forty-two cities and nineteen caves. Here are
 seven of my favorite Buddhas, in the order I photographed them. After arriving in some of these
 magnificent locations, I just sat and cleared my mind to take it all in … a sense of real serenity.

<h5 class="text-center">BUDDHA COVERED WITH MONKEYS</h5>
<img class="has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/buddha_monkeys_img_4e400155bb.jpg?updated_at=2023-03-30T15:22:09.633Z" />


The setting in Lopburi, Thailand, is what really enticed me to photograph this beautiful
 Buddha. The monkeys added an extra element.
<hr />

<h5 class="text-center">DATDAWTAUNG CAVE</h5>
<img class="has-img-center"
 src="https://cdn-prod-static.heartfulness.org/the_buddha_project_img1_d271adf9b8.jpg" />
Just outside Mandalay, Myanmar, this was on the top of my list for statues to photograph: the
 colors, the lighting, the textures. It is everything all in one. The tranquility this cave resonated was truly
 remarkable. I joined a group of locals for meditation in the far corner of the cave.

<h5>See the complete set of photos in Volume 2, Issue 1
 </h5>
<h5><a href="//www.heartfulnessmagazine.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SUBSCRIBE &amp; DOWNLOAD</a></h5>
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<h5 class="text-center">Photo essay by Josh Bulriss</h5>
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