IntroductionCoincident with the rise of modernism in mid-19th century America was a corresponding decline of the Sacred. Mass-industrialism and mass-urbanization resulted in a dramatic break with the old ways, and in a new consciousness created by the urban landscape. Art and literature began to seek new forms of expression, more relevant to a modern industrial society. Traditional religion, which was not created around the modern city, seemed no longer equipped to answer the questions Americans were interested in. Many began to look instead to science for these answers.
Science and technology were developing at an exciting rate, and people recognized themselves as belonging to an age of extreme historical significance because of it. Industry began to usurp religion. Whereas throughout recorded history virtually all the grand works of architecture had been dedicated to some divine or spiritual purpose, the new architectural masterpieces were skyscrapers and other temples dedicated to commerce and industry. Indeed this was the birth of a new era, and many rejected traditional religion as an antiquated remnant of a former age. Some proclaimed the "Death of God." Others, paralleling the artists and writers of the age, sought new forms of spiritual expression. They explored Ancient Wisdom, Oriental Philosophies, and "Experimental Religions"--anything which seemed a drastic departure from the familiar religions. Experiences with these "nontraditional" spiritual philosophies, however, tended to be rather superficial and noncommittal.
Religion in America has still not recovered from its fall of over a century ago. Capitalism continues to reign in the position once occupied by God. Christmas, for example, is today primarily a commercial and economic, rather than a religious, phenomenon. Our fast-paced, consumerist society encourages egoism and instant self-gratification. But although our social environment is not conducive to deep, contemplative spiritual practice, the human spirit naturally yearns for the divine. As a result of modern life this longing is combined with an also compelling longing for convenience. The need for transcendence is compromised by the opposing needs for speed, efficiency, entertainment, and personal comfort. Today religion and spirituality are trivialized, marginalized, and compromised. Searches for the Divine are often self-serving and primarily therapeutic. Religion, when not dismissed outright, has become for many a pastime rather than the center of their existence.
Proposal
I propose to comment upon the state of spirituality in America through performance art. Specifically, my art piece will focus on Tibetan Buddhism. That which is Sacred in Eastern religious traditions has lately come to be considered "trendy" in the United States: A significant number of celebrities "dabble" in Eastern Philosophy; henna, bindhis, and "kharma beads" are the lateset fashion accessories; Oriental religions are commonly associated with terms such as "sexy," "hip," and "exotic." Asian Philosophies are treated like a fad and, though inadvertently rather than maliciously, thousands of years of religious tradition are disrespected. Though all "nontraditional" religions in America face the strong possibility that they will attract not-quite-devoted devotees, Buddhism is especially susceptible. Its central doctrine, that notions of a "self" or "ego" must be abandoned, is in direct opposition to the intensely individualistic American sensibility. Serious practice of Buddhism, therefore, demands drastic changes in lifestyle and many sacrifices which Americans are typically unwilling to make.
I feel my choice to criticize the trivialization of the Divine through a dramatic performance is especially appropriate in light of this Oriental theme. Whereas Western tradition emphasizes intellectual contemplation as the primary method of gaining insight, Eastern Ways of Knowing focus on the visual and the experiential.
The project will incorporate at least five areas of academic study central to my major: Art, Anthropology, Religion, Philosophy, and Popular Culture. In addition, it will provide me with an opportunity to make what I believe to be a profound artistic statement and an important social critique.
I plan to document the performance on film and to include on the video interviews with professors and other figures. The interviews will concern both my work and, more generally, the current state of spirituality in American culture. Additional documentation of my project will be posted on the World Wide Web. The Web site will feature photographs and a limited amount of writing on topics touched upon or suggested by my work. It will also include links to other relevant sites.
Request
I request permission to proceed with this project and would appreciate any suggestions or criticisms you may have.
Annotated Bibliography with Selected Excerpts
Examples of Buddhism in Popular Culture