Tuesday17 Apr 06:37 AM
This Friday: Darshan (A Lecture on the Practice Of) + Contemporary Newar Art Expo
Souljerky and AYNY+SGT are pleased to host an evening with Siddhartha Shah this Friday, April 20. Siddhartha will be lecturing on the practice of Darshan in Hinduism, which should serve as a wonderful counterpoint to his article in the recent Namarupa, fresh off the presses.
Before we delve into the juicy details of his lecture, let me cut to the chase—he travels with original artworks of the contemporary Newar masters, and you really have got to see this stuff in person. It's amazing work to behold.
Right now in Nepal, these living masters are experiencing an artistic renaissance focusing on both Hindu and Buddhist traditions, marked by striking details, and a global influence —particularly Sandro Botticelli.
Furthermore, this tradition is currently endangered by the harsh conditions of Nepal and the stifling demands of the tourist market. Under the tutelage of —and partnership with— the brilliant artist Robert Beer (if you attended the Dalai Lama's teachings in NYC last year, the program booklet showcased Beer's illustrations and this search reveals more of his work), Siddhartha is promoting the contemporary Newar masters through lectures, and supporting the movement by selling these original paintings and drawings.
Friday's lecture will premiere several recently acquired, rarely seen works —including one which took over a year of daily painting to complete. With these pieces, the artist's work is an extended meditation on the god-forms. Thus, this art embodies the mojo. If you have an interest in art at all, and especially in sacred art, this is the real deal. If you are an art buyer—even for your yoga room or school—you will not want to miss the opportunity to experience transmissions of divine, exalted forms.
Most of these original pieces are for sale. (If you don't see images in this post hereafter, please click continue below!)
“Darshan can be loosely translated as “auspicious seeing” but is far more complex than simply looking at something. There is a relationship between the subject and object through which one gains access to profound teachings. In Hinduism, darshan may very well be the most important and common spiritual “practice” amongst devotees. The images of deities worshipped throughout the Hindu world have the potential to serve as mirrors, reflecting one’s highest potential. By learning to look at the deities with awareness, the beauty of the gods and goddesses comes to life and reveals something of great beauty and wonder.”
Siddhartha Shah
Remarks
2 total remarks for this post. Add your own remarks below.
Wed 18 Apr 2007 at 10:26AM
sue.rana
oh how i wish i lived in america.
looks fantastic and good article
Thu 19 Apr 2007 at 01:12PM
Cliff
Oh yes! I wish I was in NYC so I could take a look. Thank you for the tickle! Love and blessings and gratitude.
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