The Mystical Arts of Tibet on view at Fairfield University's Walsh Gallery | Press Releases

Image: Mystical Arts The Lamas of the Drepung Loseling Monastery will bring "The Mystical Arts of Tibet: Mandala, Photography and Dance," to Fairfield University's Thomas J. Walsh Art Gallery from Jan. 22 to February 26, 2001. The lamas, or monks, are on a world tour promoting peace and healing by sharing the sacred arts of Tibet, homeland of the Dali Lamas, and one of the world's most unique and spiritual civilizations.

The exhibit begins on Monday, Jan. 22 at 6 p.m., with opening ceremonies which include the sacred ritual for the creation of a Tibetan sand mandala in the gallery. A mandala, a Sanskrit word meaning "world in harmony," is constructed by painstakingly laying grains of colored sand into an intricate design on a platform. The Walsh Gallery's mandala will be constructed over a period of five days from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closing ceremonies will take place on Sunday, Jan. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m., beginning in the gallery and ending at the Mill River where the mandala will be disposed. The mandala is destroyed to symbolize the impermanence of all that exists.

In conjunction with the exhibit, a presentation of "Sacred Music/Sacred Dance," will take place on Sunday, Jan. 28, at 3 p.m. in the Quick Center's Kelley Theatre. Gaily costumed Drepung Monks will perform ten pieces believed to generate energies conducive to world healing.

The monks, renowned for their unique skill of "overtone singing," have trained the muscles of the vocal cavity to reshape it while singing, allowing each individual to create three notes simultaneously, thereby creating a complete chord. This incredible technique is made complete with cymbals, bells, drums and long-horn trumpets. Tickets for this two-hour show, including intermission, are $15, $13 seniors, $7.50 students, and may be reserved by calling (203) 254-4010 or toll free at 1-877-ARTS-396.

Also on display in the Walsh Art Gallery from Jan. 22 to February 26 is a collection of Tibetan photographs including some taken by Fairfield University professor Dr. Katherine Schwab. The photos highlight many of Tibet's important places and may be viewed during regular gallery hours, Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. The entire exhibit is sponsored by the Thomas J. Walsh Art Gallery and the university's Department of Visual and Performing Arts. For more information call (203) 254-4000, ext. 2969.