Lectures on Buddhist Art & Iconography
Carmen Mensink often gives lectures on many different subjects regarding Tibetan Buddhist Art & Iconography. She is hired by museums, universities, buddhist centers and other institutions. Carmen also offers lectures and presentations at different festivals and events.
Rubin Museum of Art, New York City, USA
Pratt Institute, New York City, USA
Omega Institute for Holistic Studies, Rhinebeck, NY, USA
Wereldmuseum Leiden (Museum Volkenkunde / Museum of Ethnology), The Netherlands
Wereldmuseum Amsterdam (Tropenmuseum / Museum of Ethnology), The Netherlands
Some examples of lectures that can be offered:
- The Art of Thangka
A beautiful introduction in the the art of thangka, its history and its place within Tibetan Buddhism - The Feminine aspect in Tibetan Buddhist Art
Female forms in Tibetan iconography serve as essential pillars of enlightenment, that you’ll learn all about in this lecture - The Eight Auspicious Symbols for spiritual and material well-being
Drawing from her experience of being commissioned to create large representations of these symbols for the Dalai Lama’s visits to the Netherlands, Mensink shares insights into their iconography and their role in welcoming high spiritual masters - Wisdom & Compassion in Tibetan Art
An exploration of wisdom and compassion (the pillars of Tibetan Buddhism) as interpreted through the traditional art of thangka painting - Medicine Buddha, the Buddha of Healing
This lecture explores the profound spiritual and physical healing traditions centered on Bhaisajyaguru, the ‘Master of Lapis Lazuli Light’ - Mudras – the sacred hand gestures of the Buddhas
A lecture where you’ll learn all about the most used hand gestures in Tibetan Buddhism, and the deep meaning they represent - Mandalas in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition
Rooted in the Sanskrit word for ‘circle’ or ‘center,’ a mandala represents the universe in its ideal form
Note that lectures on any Buddha, Bodhisattva, symbol or buddhist theme can be offered.
All lectures are entertaining, and end with a joyous Q&A.
Want to hire Carmen Mensink for a lecture?
Most lectures at the different institutions and museums are accompanied by Carmen’s guided tours and/or her workshops.