©  ©

The exhibits are selected primarily with regard to the religious ideals and teachings of Buddhism. In addition, differing styles from the major art regions are presented. A combination of naturalistic and abstract pictorial elements is the fundamental characteristic of all the different styles. Wisdom, the direct perception of reality, and compassion, the meditational attitude of universal empathy, form the central pair of terms in the teachings of the so-called "diamond vehicle" which has determined Tibetan Buddhism since the 8th century. The combination of these two factors - according to the esoteric doctrine - results in enlightenment, bliss and benediction for all sentient beings. The iconography of the diamond vehicle, especially the pictorial language of sexual symbolism created to portray enlightenment and bliss, has produced some of the most spectacular examples of Tibetan art. However, the exhibition does not only confine itself to esoteric subjects but presents the whole spectrum of the pictorial world of Tibetan Buddhism. It first familiarizes us with the basic principles which originated in India, then presents the four main orders which originated in Tibet itself, and finally leads us into Buddhism's concept of paradise. The crowning glory of the exhibits is a sand particle Kalachakra ("Wheel of Time") mandala created by Tibetan monks from the Namgyal Monastic University during the first four weeks of the exhibition. Catalogue: The catalogue of the original American exhibition, which is already recognised as a standard work on Tibetan Buddhist art, has been translated and supplemented with an annex of those works which have been included specially for this exhibition. It will be available for DM 68,-. Catalogue orders: Buchhandlung Walther König, Telephone (49) 0228/9171-449 Educational Service: Accompanying the exhibition, an attractive workshop program for children, young people and adults as well as programs for adult education are offered in addition to the general introductory guided tours. A small cabinet containing didactical material on the working technique of Tibetan artists will be made accessible to the public.

produced and copyright by kunst- und ausstellungshalle der bundesrepublik deutschland