Remember That You Will Die

Death Across Cultures

March 19, 2010 - August 9, 2010

In both the Christian European and Tibetan Buddhist artistic traditions, graphic images of death and the afterlife are used as reminders that life is fleeting and that we must act virtuously. Death knows no social barriers-rich or poor, powerful or meek-and all must inevitably face judgment for their deeds on earth. Remember That You Will Die: Death Across Cultures presents eerily beautiful, and at times frightening, images from both traditions in the form of paintings, sculptures, quotidian objects, and ritual items made from human remains. These provocative works of art are meant to startle viewers out of apathy, urge them to contemplate their mortality, and inspire them to use their short time on earth to secure a desirable place in the afterlife.

Remember That You Will Die is complemented by one contemporary work, a video by the American artist Bill Viola entitled The Three Women, which is being exhibited in New York for the first time.

Download the audio tour at iTunes U

Compose a poem inspired by the exhibition Remember That You Will Die. Your poem can share your memories of a person who has passed away, explore the nature of dying or mourning, or consider how you would like to be remembered.

Essay Contest

Killing the Buddha (the online religion magazine), Obit-Mag.com, and the Rubin Museum are collaborating on a non-fiction writing competition inspired by the exhibition Remember That You Will Die. Learn more...

Exhibition Brochure