Buddha from the catacombs

This painting was a total surprise. I started it with no idea where it would go. I painted the various shades of orange on the background months ago. Then I recently added the basic shape of the figure. The orange background seemed to call out for saffron robes. Then the other night I started playing with my new watersoluable crayons. I used those to shade and blend the face... and suddenly it took on an antiqued look.

After that the background looked pretty empty. So I added some mixed media pieces. I cut bits from a Korean newspaper and also added the Ohm symbol.

I really love this painting now!!! I just need to make sure I don't show it to anyone who can read and write Korean! Those pieces from the newspaper? They were from the classified section. They probably says "Hot Single Man looking for love" or "Need extra cash? Call us!!!" Not exactly in line with my subject! LOL But I still love it. :)