May 2013: Dr. Justin McDaniel, A Day of Buddhist Art, Community & Learning

The Archaeology Society of Staten Island is happy to present an engaging afternoon of Buddhist Art for learners of all ages. Join us on Wagner College’s Campus from 3-6 o’clock on Sunday, May 19th for a lecture and a series of workshops.

Lecture by Dr. Justin McDaniel of the University of Pennsylvania

Guest lecturer, Dr. Justin McDaniel of the University of Pennsylvania, will deliver a lecture entitled “Affixing Gold to Ghosts: An Introduction to Buddhist Art in Gold, Stone, Wood, and Plastic.” Traditional research on Buddhist Art has primarily concentrated on the study of Buddhist images, stupas, manuscripts, and murals produced by the elite before the nineteenth century. However, Buddhists in Southeast Asia today interact with Buddhist statues in very different ways. His talk will concentrate on vernacular art made recently out of wax or wood, or crudely and mass -produced bronze, plastic copper, resin, or clay and their use in dynamic ritual activities and highly tactile relationship with patrons, artists, and visitors.

In addition to the lecture, attendees are invited to participate in one of three workshops that will
touch upon material presented by Dr. McDaniel:

Book Discussion

Take part in an intimate seminar-style discussion with Dr. McDaniel about his travels in Thailand and his book, “The Lovelorn Ghost and the Magical Monk: Practicing Buddhism in Modern Thailand.” Read a selection from the book, learn about the Ghost and the Monk, their role in contemporary Buddhist practice, and their presence in contemporary drama, film, and art.

Educator’s Workshop with Neysela da Silva-Reed

Museum Educator Neysela da Silva Reed will work with attendees interested in teaching about topics related to religion and material culture. A professional museum educator herself, Ms. da Silva-Reed has worked in museums in Africa, London, and here at the Brooklyn Museum to facilitate engaged learning environments around topics of religion and art. A great professional development opportunity for teachers of all levels!

Buddhist Mandala Sand Art Demonstration

Take part in this hands-on project! Work with Meg Ventrudo, Curator of the Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art, to create a one-of-a kind work of art. Learn about geometry and Buddhist deities, and experience one of the most beautiful forms of community-based art that honors nature, life, and the earth.

The program convenes at 3 o’clock PM in Wagner’s Spiro Hall room #2. Light refreshments will be provided. Parking is available behind the Spiro Sports Center. For questions or to sign up in advance please contact Sarah Scott.

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The Archaeology Society of Staten Island is a local Society affiliated with the national Archaeological Institute of Archaeology (AIA). The event is free and open to the public. Sponsorship is being provided by the AIA and we hope the event will inspire participants to become involved with the Society on a regular basis, and join as a local Society member.