Phone Buddha

Virtual installation by Ningxia Zhang, 2022

Not sure since when, we’ve been used to learning about the distant or close-by sufferings (Duḥkha) of other human beings through our phones. The term doomscrolling has been coined to describe this depressive yet addictive activity.

By positioning Buddha as the subject scrolling through world news, this installation contemplates on how we view and process the immense sufferings we frequently see on digital screens, and whether ancient philosophy can offer insights about our present day challenges. Other interpretations are welcome as viewers engage with it.

This work pays tribute to the legendary Nam June Paik.

How to interact: drag to move around the installation. Zoom in and out with mouse or trackpad. Use arrow keys to pan.

3D model Buddha by hullo is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution.

3D model Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max by hullo is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution.

3D model VR Square Gallery 4k is by Marcin Lubecki.

HDRI Forest Slope is by Andreas Mischok.