Living Practices

In Himalayan cultures most objects are created with a specific purpose, often in the context of religious practices or special occasions marking life events, but also as part of everyday secular activities. These images and objects function as part of living practices, whether individual, familial, professional, or communal.

Secular Aims

Religious rituals and the commissioning of art can serve everyday secular needs, the most common being wealth, health, and long life.

These more worldly concerns are not seen as antithetical to religious goals. Good health, long life, and material support, including the leisure time for spiritual pursuits that wealth affords, can all be beneficial to an individual’s religious practice.

Objects in the Exhibition

Merit
In Himalayan cultures religious merit is the overarching reason for creating, commissioning, dedicating, and using religious works of art.
Religious Goals
Tantric practitioners strive to transform themselves by using meditative and ritual tools with the ultimate goal of enlightenment or awakening.