Figure crouching down, holding a hammer near a large piece of art.

Bhutanese artist Pema “Tintin” Tshering’s work examines abstract intangible Buddhist philosophies and how they manifest in everyday life through symbols, personalities, practices, and the human landscape of faith and belief. The artist shares the inspirations for his artworks featured in Reimagine: Himalayan Art Now, which explore the concepts of happiness and passion.

Reimagine: Himalayan art Now is a contemporary group exhibition of 32 artists from the Himalayas, Asia, and diaspora whose artworks are presented alongside objects from the Rubin Museum’s collection. Reimagine is on view in New York City March 15–October 6, 2024, and then travels to Chicago and beyond.

Reimagine: Himalayan Art Now is supported by Bob and Lois Baylis, Daphne Hoch Cunningham and John Cunningham, Noah P. Dorsky, Marina Abramović Institute (MAI), Mimi Gardner Gates, Fred Eychaner, Jacques and Natasha Gelman Foundation, Jack Lampl, Dan Gimbel of NEPC, LLC, Agnes Gund, New York Life, Matt and Ann Nimetz, Namita and Arun Saraf, The Prospect Hill Foundation, Eileen Caulfield Schwab, Taipei Cultural Center in New York, and UOVO.

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council.

The Rubin Museum’s programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.

This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Image CreditsImage Credits

Pema “Tintin” Tshering; Objective Happiness; 2023; acrylic on canvas, board and wire; courtesy of the artist

Pema “Tintin” Tshering; Buddha with the passions surrounding; 2023; acrylic on canvas; courtesy of the artist

Padmasambhava, his eight manifestations, and scenes from his life; Gangteng Monastery, Bhutan; 19th century; pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Art; Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin; SC2012.4.13 (HAR 1093)

Published September 6, 2024
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