Mystical Arts of Tibet
Mandala Sand Painting
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DateSep 17 - 21, 2024
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Doors OpenViewing is open until 9 pm each night.
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Presented ByBlumenthal Arts
Event Details
Viewing is open until 9 pm each night.
From all the artistic traditions of Tantric Buddhism, that of painting with colored sand ranks as one of the most unique and exquisite. In Tibetan this art is called dul-tson-kyil-khor, which literally means "mandala of colored powders." Millions of grains of sand are painstakingly laid into place on a flat platform over a period of days or weeks. Formed of a traditional prescribed iconography that includes geometric shapes and a multitude of ancient spiritual symbols, the sand-painted mandala is used as a tool for re-consecrating the earth and its inhabitants.
On previous US tours the lamas have displayed this sacred art in museums across the country, including the Arthur Sackler Gallery, Washington; Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago; Peabody Essex Museum, Salem; the Indianapolis Art Museum, Indianapolis; Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, and The Provincial Museum of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.
The lamas begin the work by drawing an outline of the mandala on the wooden platform, followed by the laying of the colored sands, which is effected by pouring the sand from traditional metal funnels called chak-purs. Each monk holds a chak-pur in one hand, while running a metal rod on its grated surface; the vibration causes the sands to flow like liquid.
Traditionally most sand mandalas are deconstructed shortly after their completion. This is done as a metaphor of the impermanence of life. The sands are swept up and placed in an urn; to fulfill the function of healing, half is distributed to the audience at the closing ceremony, while the remainder is carried to a nearby body of water, where it is deposited. The waters then carry the healing blessing to the ocean, and from there it spreads throughout the world for planetary healing.
Opening Ceremony - Sept 17th
Start Time: 12:30 PM
The opening ceremony will run approximately 45 minutes to an hour, where the monks wlill begin preparing the site for the Mandala Sand Painting. Guests can anticipate a brief moment of chanting, music, and even dance during this visually and acoustically striking event. Shortly following will be an informal reception to introduce the public to the full line up of events and activities planned for the monks’ residency!
Closing Ceremony - Sept 21st
Start Time: 12:30 PM
The closing ceremony run approximately 45 minutes to an hour, where the monks will dismantle the Mandala, sweeping up the colored sands to symbolize the impermanence of all that exists. Half of the sand will then be distributed to the audience in small bags and memorable souvenirs!
Official Website
Accessibility
Advance reservations for Patron Assistance are encouraged to ensure the best possible experience.
- Assistive listening systems available
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Wheelchair seating
Wheelchair access
All of our theaters and classrooms are accessible to patrons who use wheelchairs. Most restrooms and water fountains in all facilities are wheelchair accessible, and restrooms are equipped with strobe-light as well as audio alarm systems.
Entry and exit assistance
For performances in the Knight Theater, an usher can meet patrons who need assistance at the corner of 1st and S. Tryon Streets.
SERVICES FOR THE VISUALLY-IMPAIRED
Audio Description
Certain performances will be audio described for the blind or visually impaired. The Box Office will provide a schedule of these performances upon request. Audio description provides an on-going oral description of the action, sets and costumes during the performance. Each participant wears a headset, and no other patrons are able to hear the descriptions.
Large Print Programs
Large print programs are available for patrons at many performances. At the Knight Theater, simply ask any usher for assistance.
Service Animals
If you or someone in your party plans to attend an event with a service animal, please inform the Box Office when purchasing your tickets so that we may arrange for an aisle seat.
SERVICES FOR THE DEAF AND HARD-OF-HEARING
Interpreting
Certain performances at the Performing Arts Center will be interpreted for the hearing impaired. The Box Office will provide a schedule of these performances as requested.
Assistive Listening Devices
Assistive listening equipment is available free of charge for all amplified performances. Please see an usher for assistance
Public Transit
SUGGESTED LIGHT RAIL STATION
3rd Street Station – Suggested if you are attending an event at the Levine Center for the Arts; which includes the Knight Theater.