The Significance of Color Symbolism in Himalayan Sacred Arts: As Seen through Costumes, Textiles and Jewelry

The Society for Asian Art presents a talk with Tamara Hill on how “five-colored” and rainbow-hued patterns are integral to Buddhist traditions and how the colors are auspicious metaphors for luck, hope and impermanence.

This visual odyssey is a richly illustrated summary of the symbolic motifs of Tibetan Buddhism, revealed in both sacred and secular textiles and adornments worn by the Himalayan peoples. The presentation demonstrates how “five-colored” and rainbow-hued patterns are integral to Buddhist traditions and how the colors are auspicious metaphors for luck, hope and impermanence.  The lecture will trace how these decorative examples are also based on the multi-layered structure of the mandala and other symbolic forms. The focus will be on the significance of jewelry, gemstones, amulets, and accessories.

Tamara W. Hill is a multi-faceted artist, photographer, writer, art history teacher, designer and independent scholar. Her photographs have been displayed in gallery exhibitions and museums, published in books and magazines, and her fine jewelry designs sold in selected galleries and museum shops.