Tibetan Art and Culture

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I've been getting a taste of both Indian and Tibetan arts and culture here while fulfilling my volunteer obligations, and during my free time as well. Some aspects interest me more than others, but it's all new and exciting. For example, art and music really catch my attention. On the other hand, I'm not really concerned with the religious aspects of the cultures (but there is PLENTY to find here for those who are interested - a lion's share of the tourists, I believe.)

One thing that has really surprised me is how similar certain aspects of traditional Tibetan culture seem to the cultures of Native American peoples, especially those found in the south-west United States. The traditional music and dance sound and look very much like what I've observed from performances by the Hopi Indians and other tribes. The original Tibetan religion of Bon (before Budhism took over) is very animistic and connected to nature, much like Native American religions. Even some of the patterns I've seen on the clothing worn by dancers here is remarkably similar to those of traditional Native American clothing.
The first Americans did come from Asia originally, crossing over ice to Alaska 10,000+ years ago. Is it possible that certain cultural links have been preserved after all this time by people on opposite sides of the globe?

In April, the Tibetan Shoton Opera Festival was a nine-day extravaganza which I had the pleasure to see a little of. Held at the Tibetan Institute for the Performing Arts (T.I.P.A.), the opera consisted of dancing, music, singing, and acting, all in the open surrounded on every side by cheerful onlookers. The performance reminded me alot of Japanese Kabuki theatre, only less exact and rigid. In addition to many photos I was also able to get some good sketching time in by drawing the varied and beautiful costumes of the performers.

The other pictures in this set are from Norbulingka. Norbulingka is a cultural center and school located near town, which was modeled after the Dalai Lama's original summer residence in Tibet. The architecture is beautiful and quite different from most of what you see in India. As you enter the complex, you first stroll through a very tranquil garden with Tibetan prayer flags strewn all about. Later, you pass through an archway of golden prayer wheels (which you should spin as you pass by them clockwise, to spread good will and positive energy to the outside world.) Then, a bridge which crosses bubbling fountains, and a small museum of Tibetan art and culture. At the far end of the compound is a beautifully designed shrine which houses a large Budha statue and a framed photo of the Dalai Lama, and some truly gorgeous paintings wrought in metallic colors.
This place also serves as a school for Tongka painting, weaving, and other crafts. These artforms can take many years to master. One artist I talked to while he was working on a beautiful gold leaf painting told me that he had been working on that particular piece for 9 months... and he was only 70% finished!

Peace,

- David

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Photos

Woven Tapestry - Norbulingka
I don't know what this is called or what it stands for... but it's pretty.

Inside the Temple - Norbulingka
"Don't you hate it when you get to the big, gold Budha, and you pick the leaf with the virus on it!?!"