Name: Jared J.
Procopio
Department: Social Studies
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Artwork of the Himalayan Region
Objective: Students will be able to identify artworks of the Himalayan region by sight. Students will also be able to explain several key aspects of Buddhist artworks in regards to symbolism and composition.
Materials: Use the links found on the bottom of the page to gather images and information about Tibetan/ Buddhist artworks.
Procedure: Have students be the researchers! Rather than just giving the students an explaination of artwork, have them examine it on their own first.
First, establish that there is no wrong answer in regards to their first impression of an artwork. The students should feel comfortable sharing their reactions and impressions of a piece of art.
Next, have the students view artworks from the Himalayan region and have them record their first impressions of the piece. You may want to give students a quiet moment to complete this task so that they are free to establish their own views of an artwork. After everyone is done, you may discuss their responses as a group.
After discussion, provide the students with information about the artworks they are viewing. In regards to Buddhist artworks, distribute sheets about Mudras and basic Thangka compositional elements. Now, using this information, have students reexamine the artworks. Students should write down their new findings and, when complete, share them with the class. During the discussion portion of this activity draw upon the differences between their first impressions and their informed evaluations.
For a more detailed outline of this lesson click here.
CLICK HERE to go to Buddhist Art and Architecture Website
CLICK HERE to go to the Dharmapala Thangka Centre, Mudras
CLICK HERE to go to the Dharmapala Thangka Centre, Thangka Gallery
This site was created by Jared Procopio at the NEH Summer Institute "Cultures and Religions of the Himalayan Region," held at the College of the Holy Cross, Summer 2004