Tibetan Monks Construct a Sand Mandala

Visit Cannell Library this week to take part in a special presentation, Sacred Tibetan Art – The Sand Mandala: Creating a Picture of Universal Compassion. Monday through Thursday, watch six Tibetan Buddhist monks construct a Sand Mandala.

This Mandala can be appreciated simply as a piece of “time-based art.” But, according to Tibetan Buddhist belief, the creation of a Sand Mandala is meant to create a profound experience of Compassion. The positive effects of a Sand Mandala are believed to radiate out over an entire region, blessing the environment and the beings therein, as an effort for world peace.

Once created, the Sand Mandala is destroyed in the Closing Ceremony, as a lesson in the impermanence of all life. The Opening and Closing Ceremonies are very popular, with traditional Tibetan Buddhist chanting and music.

Schedule

Monday, Nov. 26 (Cannell Library)

• 12:30 p.m. – Opening Ceremony with music
• 12:30 – 6:30 p.m. – Sand Mandala Construction

Tuesday, Nov. 27 and Wednesday  Nov. 28 (Cannell Library)

• 10 – 6:30 p.m. – Sand Mandala Construction

Thursday, Nov. 29

• 10 – 3:00 p.m.  Sand Mandala Construction (Cannell Library)
• 12 – 1:00 p.m. – Sacred Tibetan Art Presentation (PUB 161) See description below.
• 3 – 4:00 p.m. – Closing Ceremony with music (Cannell Library)

Special Presentation

Sacred Tibetan Art:  World Peace Starts With A Meaningful Life

Thursday, Nov. 29, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. – Penguin Student Lounge (PUB 161)

The Venerable Geshe Tenphel from the Drepung Loseling Phukhang Monastery will describe the history and meaning of the Sand Mandala within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The six monks creating the Mandala are on their first visit to the western world, and Geshela will share what they hope to accomplish by creating this ancient and unique piece of artwork.

He will speak about how a healthy attitude about everyday living can lead to a contented and happy life. As more people experience love and compassion, we will create peaceful communities, and ultimately a peaceful world. There will be time for Q & A.

This week’s program is sponsored by the The Office of International Programs, Cannell Library, and the Office of Diversity and Equity. Everyone is welcome.