Nettra Pan
Lotus Paper, undated
Acrylic, plaster, and newspaper on canvas
24 x 63 ½ in. (61 x 161.3 cm)
Courtesy of the artist, New York, New York, and Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Netrra Pan writes: “As a Cambodian American raised in Cambodia, I have discovered firsthand the experiences unique to Khmer people, a perspective outside of foreigners' grasps. This has compelled me to contribute to the rebirth of Cambodian art, which was nearly obliterated during the Khmer Rouge Regime (1975-1979). In visual arts, I explore a popular Buddhist and Southeast Asian motif: the lotus flower. I imagine an analogy between Cambodia's current state, and the growth of lotuses out of ponds. There is richness at the roots but also a turbulent past that we need to rise above. Through the lotus, I aim to represent peace.” For more information, please visit: http://nettra.pan.googlepages.com.