Buddhism and Chinese Art

The history of Buddhism in China is a history of crossroads and cultures. As early as the 4th century, Buddhism was transmitted from India to China via the Silk Road and maritime routes-a process that integrated new philosophies, art forms, and religious beliefs with indigenous Chinese traditions. Over 1600 years later, that integration still continues as Chinese Buddhism encounters new social contexts throughout mainland China. This lecture will journey along these crossroads.
France Pepper is the Founder and President of the China cultural consultancy China Insider, and she is a recognized professional in the field of Chinese art, history and culture. She is a curator of private and public collections, a certified member of the Appraisers Association of America, has been a lecturer at The Metropolitan Museum of Art and other institutions for more than 20 years, and was Director of Arts and Culture Programs at China Institute for 11 years. Pepper also curates and leads high-level cultural trips to China and other Asian countries. Her academic research was on Buddhist art and culture along the Silk Road.