The Sacred Art of Tibet
The Sacred Art of Tibet
Lecturer: Zara Fleming
Isolated from the outside world for centuries, Tibet is home to a rich artistic tradition inspired by the teachings of Buddhism. Buddhism began in India during the 5th century BCE and over the centuries developed into three distinct paths – the Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana. Both the Mahayana and the Vajrayana introduced an extraordinary system of visual imagery, and it was these two traditions that permeated Tibet from the 7th century onwards. This lecture explores the wealth of this sacred artistic tradition – and explains how the paintings and sculptures are created, and the diverse ways in which they are used.
Zara Fleming is a freelance lecturer, art consultant and exhibition curator specialising in the art and culture of Tibet, the Himalayan areas and Mongolia. Initially based at the V&A, Zara also worked with the Central Asian Department of Bonn University, the Orient Foundation, the Royal Academy, Tibet House, the National Museums and Galleries on Merseyside and Asia House. In addition to lecturing for The Arts Society, she lectures for museums, universities, Asian art societies, and private associations. Zara has been a guest lecturer and tour guide on numerous trips to the Himalayas. She edited Masterpieces of Mongolian Art: Vol 1 and has published many articles in the field of Buddhist art and culture.