Shy Lotus, 2021

By Alessandra Chaves

In the summer months, Lotus flowers appear at the William Land Park's pond in Sacramento. Photographers crowd around them for that perfect shot. Shy Lotus, 2021, happened when I noticed this one hiding away from the cameras amongst the leaves and underneath the other, more visible flowers.In Buddhist symbolism, the lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is a symbol of purity, for even though it is rooted in mud, its flowers blossom above the muddy waters of attachment and desire. It is also symbolic of detachment, since water drops slide off its petals.