The Many Faces of Buddha

September 15 – November 20, 1986

This exhibition contained 40 works of arts, representing the spiritual and peaceful image of Buddha. The pieces were representative of Buddhist images from 12 countries, including: Tibet, Korea, Cambodia, Thailand, India, and Japan.Many of the pieces in the exhibit, which are made primarily of bronze, gilt bronze, marble and wood, had never previously been on display to the public.

Kitty Higgins, a Far Eastern Art expert and owner of a gallery in Washington, D.C., was the curator of the exhibition and collected the works from private collectors. This was the first American exhibit in 50 years devoted exclusively to the Buddha.

The October 25, 1986 issue of Creative Loafing said, “The Many Faces of Buddha is a fascinating exhibit that exemplifies the innovative approach of gallery director Lloyd Nick. Nick consistently presents well-organized, carefully curated shows that offer a chance to see works that are seldom, if ever, displayed elsewhere.” The exhibit opened with a black tie garden champagne reception. Ms. Higgins, a frequent consultant to the Freer Gallery of the Smithsonian Institute, gave the opening lecture. This exhibition was accompanied by Oglethorpe University Art Gallery’s first published catalog.

Selected Highlights: