The recent discovery of a rich cultural treasure trove of ancient Tibetan monastic art and furniture shines a light on an overlooked cluster of monasteries located in an eastern region of Tibet known as The Golden Valley. Tracing the tumultuous history of the valley from the 7th century to the present day, a history sometimes triumphant but often atrociously tragic, provides the backdrop for the many influences on the evolution of its art, whether from enlightened Buddhist teachers or murderous invading armies. Richly photographed, the book not only features the art itself - from exquisite centuries-old wall hangings to ingeniously designed furniture, all produced by dedicated monks - but also explains in unprecedented detail the symbolism and philosophy incorporated into these pieces, their stunning decorations serving a dual purpose as teaching devices. Finally, the book introduces the reader to daily life at the monasteries. It delves into the everyday routines of the monks and nearby villagers, and the continued practice, even under today's repressive conditions, of such ancient and profound rituals as the chanting of special mantras, sutras and pujas. These and other rites are explained in great detail, right down to the deep significance of the simple act of spinning a prayer wheel. Taken together, the art showcased in this book is meant to guide the reader into the culture, mind and faith of the artists and their communities, and tell their previously untold story.
About the Author: Dave Glantz has over 25 years of experience as an educator, international consultant and market researcher, designing and directing qualitative and quantitative studies for leading government contractors, federal agencies, associations and Fortune 500 companies. His research spans such widely varying topics as cybersecurity, international development work, college financing, and the use of the International Space Station's national laboratory, among dozens more. Dave's research focuses on thought leadership, branding, website usability, satisfaction and loyalty, and capture research, as well as concept, message and ad evaluation. He also writes about issues he cares about, such as his 2008 analysis of how a president Obama or McCain would conduct U.S. foreign policy, and a 2015 call to return the Parthenon Marbles to Greece. Dave holds a M.A. in Political Studies (International Relations) and B.A., History (minoring in Art History), from the University of Manitoba in Canada. He is a member of the Qualitative Research Consultants Association (QRCA). David Huber worked for USNSGA for nearly ten years, with six of those years on the intel side completing several "special missions", as they were then called. He specialized as an in-theater tactical analyst whose primary objective was to locate targets for exploitation and then provide advance warnings for the team in the event of detection by hostile forces. His final years at the agency focused on counter-espionage, completing 88 special assignments. These included working with and alongside US military allies in the Pacific Rim as an advisor during joint operations. Following his government career, David leveraged his skills as an art and antique furniture restoration expert for insurance companies, museums and private clients. He quickly branched into custom furniture design and manufacturing, working in these combined fields for over 20 years. He commenced his current endeavor of saving the surviving Tibetan art in the Golden Valley and started research on the history, art, culture and philosophy of the area, dedicating 12 years to this study. David has an A.S. degree in Computer Science from Coleman College, and a B.S. in the Bible from Southern Christian University, and attended seminary at Turner Theological Seminary.