The Sacred Eyes: Migmar Wangdu Shaasar at Tibet Museum

Phurbu Trinley- phayul correspondent

Dharamsala: April, 3: A self-taught contemporary Tibetan artist, Migmar Wangdu Shaasar today unveiled a collection of his exotic conceptual paintings at the Tibet Museum here today.
The exhibition themed "The Sacred Eyes" beginning today will continue till 14 of this month.
Mr. Tashi Tsering, Director of the Amnye Machen Institue and a distinguished Tibetan scholar was the guest of honour for the brief inaugural function, which was attended mostly by young Aspiring Tibetan artists. Mr. Tashi delivered an eye opening talk on Tibetan Contemporary Art while at the same time reflecting on the various forms of traditional Tibetan arts. Mr. Tashi said that while traditional Tibetan art focused mostly on religion and traditional themes, other forms of art did develop from time to time.
"However, contemporary Tibetan art in its strict sense is something new," notes Mr. Tashi.

There are now increasing aspiring Tibetan artists both in Tibet and in exile who seek new paths outside their centuries-old traditional art and Himalayan culture, while staying intact with the vibrant spiritual themes. Understanding the current Tibetan situation, these young artists are now developing a contemporary Tibetan art unique in itself and strongly inspired by their ancient traditional themes to adjust with the changing time.

Migmar's work is one such example. Rather than seeking a complete break with the past, his paintings although remarkably contemporary, yet are inspired by centuries old traditions reflecting a strong spiritual core in them. "I have made every attempt to keep the traditional and cultural values of Tibet alive in new forms" says Migmar. "My paintings are contemporary, but themes embedded in them are ageless spiritual wisdoms deeply rooted in Tibetan culture", he adds.

At first glance, Migmar's paintings might wear a sad longing look, but with a better conceptualization, it will lead to deeper understanding of Tibetan culture with subjective spiritual and secular teachings invoking in us a more peaceful inner awakening.
So, Migmar says that the viewers need the sacred third eyes to get the real meaning of each of his modern yet, traditional paintings.

By profession, Migmar is a freelance artist and a cartoonist for a local Tibetan newspaper.