Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Tibetan Art
It is Buddhism that inspires almost all Tibetan art. Paintings, architecture, lit-
erature, even dance, all in some way or another attest to its influence. Per-
haps more unexpected is that, despite the harshness of their surroundings,
Tibetans have great aesthetic taste, from stylish traditional carpets and
painted furniture to jewellery and traditional dress.
Tibetan Art Websites
www.asianart.com - general
www.mechakgallery.com - contemporary art
www.himalayanart.org - online collections
Art & History
The arts of Tibet represent the synthesis of many influences. The Buddhist art and architec-
ture of the Pala and Newari kingdoms of India and Nepal were an important early influence
in central Tibet, and the Buddhist cultures of Khotan and Kashmir spilled over the moun-
tains into western Tibet. Newari influence is clearly visible in the early woodcarvings of the
Jokhang, and Kashmiri influence is particularly strong in the murals of Tsaparang in west-
ern Tibet. Chinese influences, too, were assimilated, as is clear at Shalu Monastery near
Shigatse and in the Karma Gadri style prevalent in eastern Kham. A later, clearly Tibetan
style known as Menri was perfected in the monasteries of Drepung, Ganden and Sera.
Tibetan art is deeply conservative and conventional. Personal expression and innovation
are not greatly valued, indeed individual interpretation is actually seen as an obstacle to
Tibetan art's main purpose, which is to represent the path to enlightenment. The creation of
religious art is seen primarily as an act of merit and the artist generally remains anonymous.
Much of Tibet's artistic heritage fell victim to the Cultural Revolution. What was not des-
troyed was, in many cases, ferreted away to China or onto the Hong Kong art market. Over
13,500 images have since been returned to Tibet but this is still just a fraction of the number
stolen. Many of Tibet's traditional artisans were persecuted or fled Tibet. It is only in recent
 
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