| Jacques Marchais
Museum of Tibetan Art 338 Lighthouse Avenue Staten Island, NY 10306 (718) 987-3500 http://www.tibetanmuseum.org/ |
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| This beautiful museum resembles a
small Tibetan mountain temple tucked away from the world. Terraced sculpture
gardens, a lily and fish pond, and a distant view of the lower Hudson Bay
add to the atmosphere of serenity and beauty. The Tibetan Museum is unique
in displaying its art in a setting especially conducive to its understanding
and enjoyment.
The objects showcased are Tibetan, Nepalese, Tibeto-Chinese, and Mongolian in origin, and date primarily from the 17th to 19th centuries or earlier. The collections are rich in metal figures of deities and lamas, as well as in thangka paintings. There are also notable examples of jewel-encrusted Nepalese metalwork, a set of silver ceremonial implements, jewelry, dance masks, and imperial Chinese cloisonne decorative objects. The Museum is a beautiful place for a family visit and offers a host of opportunities for cultural enrichment for people of all ages. Throughout the year there are special exhibitions and activities (weekends) with something of interest to just about everyone. A fine educational resource for School Groups, the Museum presents a number of programs for grades 1 through college covering topics such as an introduction to Tibetan art and culture; symbols and hand gestures used in Tibetan art; the Dalai Lama of Tibet; and environmental problems facing the beautiful Tibetan Plateau. Programs are conducted in two parts. The first consists of a Museum teacher visiting the classroom for a hands-on introductory lesson. Part 2 takes place at the Museum and goes into detail on the subject being covered, and this includes an art workshop. In addition to the program, a 17 page teacher's guide is sent to the teacher beforehand. There are also special programs for the visually impaired. This museum has been called "One of New York's best kept secrets." Still, it runs a busy schedule, and teachers are advised to reserve programs well in advance. They will find it is worth the wait. |
Hours: Wednesday thru Sunday 1 - 5pm.
Other times for Groups by appointment. Admission:
Group Reservations: At least 6 weeks in advance suggested. Lunch: Picnic area. Handicapped: Not accessible. Directions: From Brooklyn: Verrazano Bridge (still 278). Continue to the Richmond Rd./Clove Rd. exit. Turn left at second light onto Richmond Rd. (following signs marked Richmondtown) to Lighthouse Ave (about 5 miles). Turn right up the hill to #338 on the right. Parking is limited. Instructions
for bus driver will be sent to teacher.
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