Gateway to Himalayan Art
Audio Tour Itinerary
Use this audio tour itinerary to navigate the second floor exhibition, Gateway to Himalayan Art, to learn foundational concepts found in Himalayan Art. This itinerary is designed to help expand your understanding of the art on view that will feature and build on these core ideas.
This tour does not need to be followed sequentially.
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02. Artwork
Buddha Shakyamuni is commonly known as the historical Buddha. Learn more about physical characteristics that will help identify this significant figure in paintings and sculptures throughout the museum.
03. Artwork
What is a bodhisattva or a tantric deity? How are these beings different than buddhas?
04. Artwork
Tara is a compassionate and well-known female deity in Buddhist traditions. She is committed to helping individuals on their path to enlightenment.
05. Artwork
Why do some of the gods appear to be angry? Are these figures in anyway evil-spirited?
06. Artwork
It is not uncommon for multiple religions to be practiced within a community or culture. Why would the depictions of gods and goddesses from two different religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism share similarities?
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07. Artwork
Himalayan art portrays a variety of figures in its artistic traditions. Some of the most popular human subjects include teachers known as lamas, Arhats which are the original disciples of the historical Buddha, and Mahasiddhas like Virupa, who are well-known in the practice of Vajrayana Buddhism.
08. Artwork
Jambhala is a fan-favorite for our youngest visitors. Can you guess what kind of medium may have been used to create this work of art?
09. Artwork
Thangka is a Tibetan word for scroll painting. Each image is carefully planned out and executed by artists who often follow specific rules on how to represent these deities.
10. Artwork
What role have woodblock prints played in the preservation and transmission of early paintings and compositions? How have objects or images been used in your own life to spread knowledge or stories?
11. Artwork
How are some of the beautiful metal sculptures in the museum made? This wax model shows the beginning of the process involved in hollow metal casting, also known as the lost wax process. Visit the materials and techniques section to see this method unfold.
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12. Artwork
Ritual is extremely important in Himalayan religious traditions and extends beyond the monastery into daily life. Art from across the museum has been used to support religious practice. To see art in context, visit our Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room , located on this level.
13. Artwork
How do everyday concerns such as long life and health factor into ritual practices? Buddha Amitayus is a deity associated with long life.
14. Artwork
Gaining merit is an important concept in Himalayan art. When an individual accumulates merit, they gain positive karma. One of the main reasons whyHimalayan art is made and commissioned is to help in the process of accumulating merit. In this section of the exhibition, discover the multiple ways that merit can be accumulated including the use of stupas and prayer wheels. .
15. Artwork
The term mandala is traditionally used to describe a geometric design that represents a three dimensional palace of a deity. As you look at this painting, try to imagine what it would look like to see this schematic view of the palace in 3D.
16. Artwork
The Wheel of Existence explains the cycle of the process of life, death, and rebirth. In the center circle of this painting there are three animals representing the three poisons which drives the endless cycles of suffering. Listen to this audio stop to learn more about the three poisons and the wheel of life.
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17. Artwork
Narrative paintings are meant to inspire devotion and often describe stories of famous figures, such as the Buddha. Hint: The large figure in the center is generally the main subject of the narrative.
18. Recommended for You
After admiring all of the pieces throughout the galleries, make sure to stop at the serene example of a Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room. This museum cornerstone provides an opportunity to understand the art in context and how practitioners may use these objects in their daily practice.