LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR
Dear Supporters and Friends, 2021 was a tumultuous year of change, full of new challenges and successes. A year later, the coronavirus continued its impact on communities and the culture sector as a whole, with both steps forward and back in terms of safety, health, and engagement. Vaccines were made widely available and gave us hope, but new variants also posed new hurdles. During this time we asked ourselves, what can art do? More specifically, how can Himalayan art provide solace amidst our struggles today? We turned to the ideas reflected in our collection and found inspiration in the teachings of the Sarvavid Vairochana mandala, which helps tantric Buddhist practitioners in meditation and visualization practices achieve enlightenment. As a result, we centered a year full of offerings on the unifying idea of awakening. Through our exhibitions, programs, and Spiral magazine, we explored how to broaden our perspective, understand our emotions, and cultivate empathy. We took inspiration from Himalayan art and called upon artists, scientists, authors, practitioners, and teachers who shared their perspectives on the power of waking up. Virtual programs continued to be a vital source of connection for us in 2021, through videos, social engagement, and a new ten-episode podcast that inspired visitors near and far. However, with the ease of restrictions and the desire to experience with all the senses came an increase of in-person Museum experiences too. Gallery visits
Annual Report 2021
nearly doubled from 2020, and the opening of the Mandala Lab, which transformed the third floor galleries into an interactive space to engage our emotions, saw over 2,000 visitors in its first weekend. Drawing on the tools of social and emotional learning, the Mandala Lab brings personal transformation and curiosity to the heart of the Rubin, empowering and guiding visitors toward positive action and a balanced, compassionate world. With new exhibitions, the return of live performance since 2020, and new experiences at the Rubin, we felt energized more than ever by the powerful art that guides us in these tremendous moments of change. All our endeavors in 2021 would not have been possible without the many generous, dedicated, and creative individuals who collaborated, supported, and interacted with us to create the Rubin Museum community that we love. As we continue to navigate the ups and downs of the pandemic, the Rubin relies on supporters who share our vision. We invite you to deepen your participation by giving generously and sharing your ideas. We are grateful for your support and excited about what we can accomplish together. Thank you for being part of the Rubin Museum family!
Jorrit Britschgi Executive Director
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