Tibetan Shrine Moves to Brooklyn Museum in June

The Rubin Museum of Art is set to close its building in Manhattan on October 6, 2024, after its final exhibition. This closure is part of a strategic shift towards becoming a 'museum without walls,' focusing on traveling exhibitions and long-term loans of its extensive collection. The Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room, a centerpiece of the museum's offerings, will be the first exhibit to be loaned out during this transition. The shrine room features over 100 works of art and ritual objects, designed to recreate a private shrine experience. Elements such as simulated butter lamps, recordings of prayers, and incense scents contribute to its immersive atmosphere. The Brooklyn Museum is preparing a custom space in its Arts of Asia galleries to house this exhibit, ensuring that the integrity of the shrine experience is preserved. Jorrit Britschgi, the director of the Rubin, emphasized the importance of maintaining a moment of quiet contemplation for visitors. The Rubin Museum was founded in 2004 to showcase the art collection of Donald and Shelley Rubin, and the decision to close its physical location marks a significant change in its operational model. The move to the Brooklyn Museum represents a collaboration that allows the Rubin to continue sharing its collection while adapting to new exhibition strategies. This initiative reflects broader trends in the museum sector, where institutions are increasingly exploring innovative ways to engage audiences beyond traditional brick-and-mortar settings.