Louise Zhang’s You are forgiven (Lotus) (2020) is currently on view in the NGV’s Asian galleries.
Acquired through the NGV x MECCA partnership, the work brings together Zhang’s interest in cultural symbolism and personal history, drawing on the visual language of traditional Chinese motifs while reflecting on the lasting imprint of her strict Christian upbringing.
Centred on the lotus, a symbol associated with purity, rebirth, and enlightenment across many Eastern religions, the painting is informed by the figure of Guanyin, often depicted on a lotus throne and revered for protection, care, and compassion. The inscribed text, 'I forgive you/you are forgiven,' reframes language as both image and invocation, connecting Zhang’s exploration of sin, guilt, and cultural division with the experience of navigating identity as a 'third culture kid.'
Artwork:
Louise Zhang
You are forgiven (Lotus), 2020
synthetic polymer paint on plywood
120 cm diameter
