Dreams of Buddha
Susus, Ganges River Dolphins

Susus are one of four species of freshwater dolphins. Born blind, they swim by echolocation and by trailing the tip of a fin along the bottom for turning purposes. During spring floods they congregate to mate. Leaving the river beds, they travel out amongst the flooded forest floors heading for specific waterways and usually unobtainable deep pools. The backdrop of this painting is of just one such pool. Within its cool depths there is a sunken temple with a statue of Buddha , his eyes also blind, as the susus begin their ritual dance. Oil on masonite, 16 x 20.