In commemoration of its 70th anniversary, Asia Society Museum will unveil an exhibition entitled Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon, featuring 70 significant pieces from the Rockefeller collection that reflects the institution’s enduring mission to promote cross-cultural understanding.
NEW YORK, NY – In a momentous occasion marking its 70th anniversary, Asia Society Museum is set to debut an exhibition titled Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon: Celebrating 70 Years of Asia Society and the Rockefeller Legacy. Scheduled to open on March 18, 2026, the exhibition will showcase a curated selection of seventy exemplary pieces of Asian art from the museum’s permanent collection, illuminating the profound legacy of the Rockefellers in fostering cultural exchange.
The Rockefellers and Their Vision
Founded in 1956 by John D. Rockefeller 3rd and his wife Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller, Asia Society was established with a clear mission: to deepen understanding of Asian cultures within the United States. The couple’s dedication to this goal is exemplified by their extensive collection of Asian art, which they began assembling in the mid-20th century and subsequently bequeathed to the museum in 1979. This collection not only reflects their personal commitment to art but also embodies a broader belief in the ability of art to bridge cultural divides and promote mutual respect among nations.
The pieces in the upcoming exhibition span over two millennia and showcase a remarkable range of artistic expressions, including bronzes, ceramics, and metalwork. Highlights of the collection include stunning Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, alongside rare ceramics from regions such as China, Korea, and Japan. Each artwork serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Asia and emphasizes the transformative power of faith and the role of international trade in the development of artistic practices.
Art as a Medium for Cultural Understanding
The exhibition’s title, Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon, encapsulates the spiritual and cultural themes that permeate the artworks on display. It reflects the deep-rooted connections between various Asian cultures and the universal quest for understanding through the lens of art. The pieces chosen for this exhibition were selected for their historical significance and their ability to evoke contemplation on the interconnectedness of different artistic traditions.
As visitors engage with the artworks, they will not only observe the aesthetic qualities but also gain insights into the historical contexts in which these pieces were created. This dual focus on artistic beauty and cultural relevance serves to enrich the visitor experience, providing a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between art, spirituality, and cultural identity across Asia.
Exhibition Impact and Future Directions
Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon offers a unique opportunity for museum-goers to appreciate the unparalleled quality of the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection in its original context at the Asia Society Museum. This exhibition stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Rockefellers while reinforcing Asia Society’s ongoing commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding between cultures.
As the museum prepares to celebrate this significant milestone, the upcoming exhibition is expected to draw a diverse audience, including art enthusiasts, scholars, and the general public. Through its rich programming and educational initiatives, Asia Society aims to cultivate a renewed interest in the artistic traditions of Asia, encouraging viewers to reflect on the relevance of these historical connections in today’s increasingly globalized world.
By situating the artistic achievements of Asia within a broader narrative of cultural exchange, Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon invites visitors to consider the importance of these connections in contemporary discourse. As the Asia Society embarks on this new chapter, the exhibition serves as both a celebration of its past and a beacon of its future endeavors.
The exhibition aligns with the Asia Society’s broader mission to promote greater knowledge and appreciation of Asia, positioning the institution as a vital platform for cross-cultural dialogue. As the world grapples with challenges stemming from cultural misunderstandings and geopolitical tensions, the role of art as a unifying force becomes increasingly significant.
Conclusion
With its commitment to showcasing the finest expressions of Asian art, Asia Society Museum not only honors the legacy of the Rockefellers but also reaffirms its dedication to cultural diplomacy through art. Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon promises to be a pivotal event that highlights the richness of Asian artistic traditions and their capacity to foster understanding in a complex world. As the opening date approaches, anticipation builds for what is sure to be a landmark exhibition in the realm of cultural appreciation and artistic exploration.
