The UMass Fine Arts Center will bring a centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist tradition back to Amherst with Mystical Arts of Tibet, April 6-10, when monks from the Drepung Loseling Monastery will create an intricate sand mandala using millions of grains of colored sand, only to ritually dismantle the painting at the end of the week.

According to Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the knowledge of sand mandala creation has been passed down for more than 2,500 years. Sand mandalas were first documented in Tibet as early as the 11th century.

Now, centuries later, the monks bring this ancient heritage, history, tradition and practice to UMass and the broader community.


 

“Watching the mandala’s creation unfold over several days and then watching its dismantling invites us to slow down and pay attention — a rare and simple gift,” says Elizabeth Gittens, the Fine Arts Center’s director of education and engagement. “Through witnessing the care and devotion the monks bring to placing each grain of sand, we’re gently reminded that loss isn’t always jarring or frightening. It can be held with intention and the realization that some experiences matter deeply, not because they last forever, but because we were fully present and quietly connected to them while they were here.”

The week will begin with an opening ceremony honoring dignitaries, during which the monks will consecrate the grounds of the mandala with sacred chants, music and mantra meditation. Over the following four days, the monks will painstakingly place millions of grains of colored sand by hand to form detailed and symbolic designs. In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, it is believed that this creation process generates healing energy.

Members of the public — including UMass students and visiting school groups — are invited to witness the sacred creation of the mandala. Visitors may also participate in a community-created mandala led by trained UMass staff, offering a hands-on opportunity to engage with the tradition.

At the end of the week, the monks will perform a closing ceremony during which they will ritually destroy the mandala painting, symbolizing the impermanence of life. Portions of the sand will be distributed to visitors, with the remainder ceremonially released into water in a gesture believed to extend healing back into the natural world.

The week will also feature a special lecture by one of the monks, Gonsa Rinpoche, who will speak on the importance of community and belonging during a time shaped by social media and increased globalization.

The events will mark the monks’ third visit to the UMass campus – Mystical Arts of Tibet was most recently presented at the university in 2018 and they return this year as part of the Fine Arts Center’s 50th anniversary season.

Part of a world tour endorsed by the Dalai Lama, all events and viewing hours are free and open to the public.

More information, a complete schedule of events, and links to register to attend the opening and closing ceremonies and Rinpoche’s lecture, can be found on the Fine Arts Center website.