For the Buddhist Art Collector: Rubin Museum of Art
The Museum’s collection includes paintings, sculpture, textiles, ritual objects and more, spanning a period from the 2nd to the 20th century.

"The Rubin Museum of Art (RMA) is a cultural and educational institution dedicated to the art of the Himalayas. Its mission is to establish, present, preserve and document a permanent collection that reflects the vitality, complexity and historical significance of Himalayan art and to create exhibitions and programs designed to explore connections with other world cultures. RMA is committed to addressing a diverse audience - from connoisseurs and scholars to the general public and young children. Through its collection, library, exhibitions and educational programs, RMA will become an international center for the preservation, study and enjoyment of Himalayan art."
     

HOLY MADNESS: Portraits of Tantric Siddhas
February 10 – September 4, 2006


This exhibition surveys the art and legends of some of the most colorful characters in South Asian and Himalayan civilization, a group of men and women called siddhas, meaning those who are spiritually accomplished. Some were considered degenerate misfits because of their outlandish behavior, while others had common occupations, such as monk, weaver, or farmer, and hid their extraordinary abilities until the right moment.

Portraits of these holy men and women are rendered in paintings, sculptures, and photographs drawn from museum and private collections worldwide.


     

Take to the Sky: FLYING MYSTICS in Himalayan Art
March 31, 2006 – January 8, 2007


Man must rise above the Earth — to the top of the atmosphere and beyond — for only thus will he fully understand the world in which he lives.
— Socrates

The urge to fly has transfixed the imagination with a steady, irresistible charm for millennia. This exhibition presents paintings and sculptures that explore the theme of flying as a spiritual power.  In Buddhist thought, flight is within our potential as human beings. With advanced spiritual development come supernatural powers such as flying, levitation, or the ability to walk through the sky as some walk on a mountain path.

Himalayan peoples are not alone in the claims to such powers through spiritual transformation. Intended for a broad audience, this exhibition will explore our human aspirations for flight from a variety of points of view. This exhibition will celebrate wonder and the imaginative power of the mind and heart.


What is it? Himalayan Art
On view since October 28, 2005


Himalayan art is new terrain for many people. This exhibition is intended to serve as a guide through this exhilarating landscape. It is organized into four sections, each addressing one of the following basic questions about Himalayan art: WHERE IS IT MADE? WHY IS IT MADE? HOW IS IT MADE? WHAT IS GOING ON?

Each object on view contributes a partial answer to the question “What is Himalayan art?” The installation will change periodically to refocus the questions and to pose others. The Museum as a whole is a journey along many paths through Himalayan art, offering intimate encounters and changing perspectives.


Tours Talks & Lectures

     
A TASTE OF RMA:
Guided Tours throughout the Galleries,
3:00 pm-4:00 pm

RMA now offers complimentary guided tours throughout the galleries! Every day (except Tuesday- at 3 p.m.) for a unique journey into Himalayan Art, with new perspectives every week. Free with Museum admission. Tours are an hour long and are subject to availability (15 person maximum). Meet at the base of the spiral staircase in the RMA's lobby.

      
     
   
Panel Discussion:
Music of Tibet

Wednesday, May 10th, 2006, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
A discussion on the future of Tibetan music with musicologist David Lewiston, record producer Joe Boyd, Washington Post music critic Tim Page and Tibetan singer Yungchen Lhamo, who is appearing in concert on May 5 at Columbia Universitys Alfred Lerner Hall. $12 (Includes admission to the Museum's galleries before the program.)
      
     
Phototalk:
Goddesses and Ancient Textiles of Central Asia by Mary McFadden

Wednesday, May 3rd, 2006, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

In seeking inspiration from the traditions of Central Asia, the high priestess of high fashion explores the elaborate symbolism and weaving techniques of China, Tibet and Mongolia. Co-presented with the Indo-Mongolian Society. $12 (Includes admission to the Museum's galleries before the program.)

Images © Rubin Museum of Art • Shelley and Donald Rubin Foundation • New York, NY


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