The Rubin Museum of Art, located in Hell's Kitchen, New York, is a cultural gem dedicated to the art and culture of the Himalayas, India, and neighboring regions. Established in 2004, the museum is named after its founders, Donald and Shelley Rubin, who are avid collectors of Himalayan art.
Housed in a building that was once the Barneys New York department store, the museum's architecture is an interesting blend of modern and traditional elements. The six-story structure features a spiraling staircase inspired by the Guggenheim Museum, which adds to its unique aesthetic appeal.
The Rubin Museum's collection comprises over 2,000 objects spanning more than 1,500 years. These include rare pieces of Tibetan Buddhist art, such as thangkas (scroll paintings), sculptures, textiles, and ritual objects. One of the most notable pieces is a 17th-century statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is a highlight of their permanent collection.
The museum also offers a range of rotating exhibitions. In 2017, it hosted "The World Is Sound," an exhibition that explored the role of sound in Tibetan Buddhism and featured interactive installations where visitors could experience the deep resonance of Tibetan singing bowls.
Educational programs are a significant aspect of the Rubin Museum's offerings. The museum frequently hosts talks, workshops, and film screenings that delve into Himalayan art and culture. One popular program is the "Mindfulness Meditation" series, which invites visitors to practice meditation led by experts in the serene environment of the museum.
A lesser-known fact about the Rubin Museum is its focus on contemporary art. It has featured exhibitions by contemporary artists like Maharaja: The Splendor of India's Royal Courts, which juxtapose traditional Himalayan art with modern interpretations.
The museum's café, Café Serai, and its shop offer visitors a place to relax and purchase unique items related to the museum's collection. The shop is known for its selection of books on Himalayan art and culture, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
The Rubin Museum of Art is also committed to sustainability and has implemented several green initiatives. These include energy-efficient lighting and climate control systems designed to preserve the delicate artworks while minimizing the museum's carbon footprint.
Overall, the Rubin Museum of Art is not just a repository of Himalayan art but also a dynamic cultural hub that fosters a deeper understanding of the rich traditions of the Himalayas and their impact on contemporary thought.