Reflections on the Rangbala Thangka Art Exhibition at Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden
As the Rangbala Thangka Art Exhibition draws to a close in a few days, we take this moment to reflect on the purpose and spirit behind this remarkable event — a celebration of art, peace, and cultural dialogue that has brought together people from every walk of life.
A Celebration of Art, Culture, and Community
Hosted at the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden in Cavan-Monaghan, this month-long exhibition — Attuning the Heart Through Discipline — has been more than an artistic showcase. It has been a bridge of understanding. Through the timeless beauty of Thangka art, we invited visitors to journey inward, to rediscover the harmony between discipline and creativity, and to recognize how ancient wisdom can inspire modern peace.
The exhibition, entirely free to the public, welcomed hundreds of guests from across the region — neighbours, friends, artists, and visitors of all backgrounds. More than 100 local artists joined us, sharing in a space where beauty became dialogue and dialogue became community.
Leaders United in Support
Our Grand Opening Ceremony was graced by over 250 guests, including leaders from every level of government and community life:
- Local Leadership: Mayor Matthew Graham (Cavan Monaghan), Mayor Doug Elmslie (Kawartha Lakes), Deputy Mayor Charlie McDonald (Kawartha Lakes), and Councillor Tracy Richardson (Ward 8).
- Provincial & Federal Representatives: MPP Laurie Scott (Haliburton–Kawartha Lakes–Brock), MP Vincent Ho, and MP Michael Ma.
- Cultural & Institutional Guests: Dr. Chen Shen, Co-Chief Curator of Art & Culture at the Royal Ontario Museum.
- Economic Development Officers: Ms. Rebecca Mustard and Ms. Donna Goodwin from the City of Kawartha Lakes.
Their presence affirmed that art and culture are powerful forces for civic unity and community well-being.
A Message from the Prime Minister of Canada
We were deeply honoured to receive a congratulatory message from the Prime Minister of Canada, recognizing the exhibition’s contribution to national harmony:
“Art means so much more than just a picture—it tells stories, conveys emotion, and creates cultural identity. To all the artists on display here, thank you for showcasing your work and enhancing the vibrancy of Canada’s artistic landscape.”
His words echo the very heart of our mission — that art unites where words may divide, and through understanding, compassion grows.
The Artists: Guardians of the Wheel of Time
The Rangbala Thangka artists, representing the Jonang lineage of Tibet, are masters of sacred art rooted in profound meditative traditions. Their work embodies centuries of devotion and discipline — a practice that transforms brush and pigment into pathways of awakening. By bringing this living tradition to Canada, we hoped to create a dialogue between cultures and generations, East and West, ancient and modern.
Building Bridges Across Cultures
In an era challenged by division and misunderstanding, this exhibition has stood as a testament to openness, tolerance, and the spirit of multiculturalism that defines Canada.
It has demonstrated how beauty can heal wounds of prejudice, how faith can coexist with reason, and how the quiet space of a temple can become a meeting place for civic and cultural renewal.
Promoting Peace and Understanding
Every visitor who entered the Grand Buddha Hall encountered not only exquisite Thangka paintings but also an atmosphere of calm reflection — an invitation to attune one’s own heart through discipline. This is the essence of Buddhist art: to purify perception and awaken compassion.
Through events like this, the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden continues its mission to foster inter-religious dialogue, cultural exchange, and community healing. In partnership with local governments, cultural institutions, and artists, we aim to promote peace, mutual respect, and shared humanity.
Looking Ahead
As this exhibition concludes, we extend heartfelt gratitude to all who made it possible — the artists, volunteers, supporters, and visitors who turned this vision into living experience.
The path of peace and understanding does not end here; it continues through every act of kindness, every exchange of ideas, and every creative collaboration that uplifts our shared home.
Bhante Mudita Bhikkhu Thera
Head of Theravāda Buddhism, Buddhist Association of Canada
Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden, Cavan-Monaghan, Ontario
Gautama Dhamma 
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