Tibetan Monks: Sand Mandala Construction

October 3 – 25th, 2009

Sacred Arts of Tibet is an exhibition that features the Gallery's extensive collection of painted thangkas (banners), sculpted images and sacred or ritual objects. Over the course of several weeks in October, a group of Ganden Jangtse Monks from Northern India will create a Tibetan sand mandala at the Gallery and will chant each morning before they begin. A mandala, which is considered a magical and sacred realm, is a visual prayer and a means of representing the entire sacred universe. It is an all-inclusive symbol and is thought to represent both the mind and body of the Buddha.

Click to view our poster or press release for this event.

The monks have completed the sand mandala and it is available to view at the Gallery until Dec. 5th. Click here for our opening hours and admission rates.

Images by Peter Reid

Click here for information on
the Monk's North American tour

Events:

Deconsecration Ceremony
Saturday, Dec. 5

2 - 2:30pm (Gallery portion)

The Monks will chant & pray while the sand mandala is brushed into a vase following a pattern. This dismantling ceremony concludes by depositing the sand into the Pacific Ocean at Cattle Point. The public is welcome to join the monks at Cattle Point for a brief ceremony.

Admission to the Gallery is by donation on Dec.5th.

Seating in chairs is limited but seating on ground or standing is also available. The Gallery may turn visitors away from exhibit if numbers exceed our legal capacity - come early to ensure your space!

Overflow parking on Dec. 5th is available at the Truth Centre and Central Middle School.