Shakyamuni Buddha
We see images of the Buddha everywhere: in living rooms, gardens, spas, restaurants, and storefronts. The image seems to promise somethinga way out, answers to our questions, a sense of peace in the middle of a busy city.
The new Gateway to Himalayan Art exhibition begins with an image of the historical Buddha and continues to present a comprehensive introduction to the diverse and beautiful world of art from the Himalayas, a region and culture that many of us know little about.
As a guide, I find myself wondering what draws people into a museum dedicated to Himalayan art. The Buddha image is imbued with mysteryhis half-closed eyes, his relaxed posture, and his serene face imply he has caught onto something we may be missing. When we see an image of the Buddha, even if its in a shop window, theres something direct, simple, and non-ironic about what is communicated.
I hope visitors to Gateway will be able to have this type of experienceclear, sharp, unjaded, unmitigated. Even if one is completely unfamiliar with this type of art, the new design will help us dive into these works without feeling overwhelmed. We might be caught by the sharpness of line, the brightness of color, the intensity of expression, the sincerity of devotion from which these pieces were created. Just like any great art, being around these pieces can create a sense of uplift, perhaps even a taste of the sublime, even if its for only a moment. For most the pure visual experience will be enough. Maybe some will be inspired to learn more.
Hopefully this new exhibition will offer something for everyone, whether one wants to linger for twenty minutes on one image or breeze through on the way to the floors above. Perhaps this experience will provide the gateway to fall in love with the art, its mystery, beauty, and skill, just as we have.