Nestled in the serene village of Espel, a picturesque part of the Netherlands, a young and adventurous soul yearned for greater horizons. At the age of 18, Peter Vredeveld embarked on a life-changing journey that would take him to Southeast Asia and introduce him to the world of ancient Buddha statues.
Unveiling the Adventurer Within
Peter’s journey started with a volunteer program in Nepal, initially planned for ten weeks but extended to a year due to the experiences he encountered. This pivotal year marked the beginning of a deep connection with Southeast Asia, which still influences Peter’s life after fifteen years.
Southeast Asia’s charm was not just about its breathtaking landscapes but also the sense of peace it offered. Peter recalls his time in a remote mountain village during his volunteer work: “It was hard work, but there was something unique about the lack of rush. Buddhism’s principle of ‘letting go’ resonated with me. I found a connection here.“
The Birth of a Collection
Peter’s growing interest in Buddhism led him to discover ancient Buddha statues during a trip to Burma in 1999 when he was just 19. One statue, in particular, captured his heart, and he decided to bring it back to the Netherlands. Little did he know that this acquisition would ignite a lifelong passion for collecting and trading Buddha statues.
A Tradition of Generosity
Central to Buddhism is the idea of generosity. Peter explains, “Buddhism is very much alive.” Temples receive many donations, leading to the replacement of old Buddha statues with new ones. Unlike Western preferences for antiques, Asia values new and shiny items, which is why old wooden temple cabinets are being replaced by modern versions with LED lights. Peter’s collection includes several antique temple cabinets, each with its own unique history.
Journeying into the Unknown
Peter’s search for Buddha statues often takes him to remote and challenging places. Sometimes, it involves boats and mopeds, while other times, it includes long train rides followed by treks through dense jungles. But in the midst of these demanding journeys, Peter returns with treasures like a Buddha statue from the twelfth century, adorned with golden eyebrows and eyes inlaid with copper and silver.
A Serendipitous Encounter
In the midst of these adventures, a chance meeting added a new chapter to Peter’s life story. He met Sangita in a hotel during one of his trips to Nepal, and their connection deepened over time. Today, Sangita is not just his life partner but an integral part of the story they are creating together. The couple, along with their two children, lives in the parsonage next to the church that now houses Peter’s remarkable collection.
Crafting the Future
As the collection of Buddha statues grew over the years, Peter and Sangita faced a crucial moment. They had initially stored the acquired statues on his family’s farm. However, as his parents decided to sell the farm due to its age, Peter and Sangita found themselves contemplating the future. Their lives had transitioned from the Himalayan village to the significantly different landscape of Emmeloord.
Acquiring a Sanctuary
In 2016, a significant decision would redefine their journey. Peter and Sangita purchased the Johannes Vianney Church on the Rielerweg in Deventer. This monumental church, which had closed its doors in 2014 due to a dwindling congregation, became the new home for Peter’s cherished Buddha statues.
The church’s transformation was remarkable. In its early days as the new guardian of the Buddha statues, Peter conducted guided tours. Local residents, old and new, visited to witness the transformation and share stories of the church’s rich history, including weddings and funerals held within its walls.
Discovering Ancient Buddha Statues
From Confessions to Buddha Statues
The sacristy at the back of the church now serves as Peter’s workshop. Among the original cabinets that once held funeral booklets, evening wake booklets, and hosts, he now lovingly restores Buddha statues. The cabinets that once witnessed confessions now house tools used for this artistic endeavor.
A Tranquil Retreat
In the old vegetable garden of the church, Sangita operates a Bed and Breakfast. Guests have the unique opportunity to spend their nights in Gypsy wagons nestled at the back of the garden. Sangita shares, “It’s been going well, but when it gets too busy, our family takes precedence, and the Gypsy wagons are temporarily unavailable.” Their commitment to family and their ability to shape their own time reflect their balanced approach to life.
A Journey Home
Today, the Buddha statues embark on their own adventures, while Peter has embraced the serenity of Buddhism and the Buddha statues he treasures. He has found his sanctuary within the church’s calm embrace, a place where he returns after each adventure, back to his cherished family and the serenity that fills his life alongside the Buddha statues.
The Business of OriginalBuddhas.com
OriginalBuddhas.com is more than a collection; it’s a thriving business that embodies the fusion of passion and entrepreneurship. What sets this business apart is its commitment to authenticity and spirituality. It boasts the world’s largest collection of Buddha statues, all personally selected by the owner. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, OriginalBuddhas.com has carved a unique niche in the world of art and spirituality.
Conclusion
The story of Peter Vredeveld and OriginalBuddhas.com serves as an inspiration for those who wish to turn their passion into a flourishing business. It’s a journey that began with an adventurous spirit, unfolded through chance encounters, and found its home among ancient statues. OriginalBuddhas.com is more than a collection; it’s a vibrant embodiment of the harmony between passion and entrepreneurship, underlined by a steadfast commitment to authenticity and spiritual resonance. It’s a testament to the timeless allure of art and spirituality that continues to captivate hearts worldwide.
For more information about this captivating journey and the Buddha statues, please visit Peter’s website at OriginalBuddhas.com to explore the teachings of Buddha and the exquisite collection he has amassed.