A Presentation and Discussion of Sacred Historical Buddhist Sites and Artworks
By Ashi Kesang Choden Tashi Wangchuck
Friday, February 6th
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Cultural Hall
Suggested contribution: $20 Public; $15 Members
Ashi Kesang Choden T Wangchuck is an up and coming young writer, art conservator, translator, and active volunteer in her nation’s efforts to keep their history, traditions, and spiritual legacy thriving. She is also the granddaughter of the Royal Grandmother of Bhutan. Her publication on Guru Rinpoche’s history and significance in Bhutan, Zangdok Palri: Lotus Light Palace of Guru Rinpoche, has received excellent international reviews. Kesang Wangchuck also manages the monastic Thimphu Thangka Conservation Center, where she works side-by-side with a group of monks to preserve sacred paintings, murals and appliqués. As a participant of her culture’s living spiritual traditions, Ashi Kesang brings an important perspective to the unique considerations of restoring sacred works, specifically, how to balance technical conservation needs with the need for these historical sites and artworks to remain alive, relevant, and accessible for the benefit of all. This presentation will include stunning images and accounts from her book, as well as a discussion of present-day preservation efforts, struggles, and successes. The audience is invited to stay afterwards for an informal Q & A.