Alyen Foning, a designer, artist, and mun (lady shaman) from the Lepcha community, will present a 30-minute online talk on her unique artistic practice, which serves as a bridge to her ancestral roots. In this presentation, Foning will discuss how she uses art to connect with her ancestors, emphasizing the deep spiritual and cultural ties her people have with nature. She will explore the rich symbolism and themes in her work that reflect the Lepcha community’s reverence for rivers, mountains, and sacred creatures. Foning will share insights into her creative process, highlighting how her dual roles as an artist and shaman inform her art, allowing her to channel ancestral wisdom and the natural world into visual expressions. The presentation will conclude with a 30-minute Q&A, providing an opportunity for the audience to delve deeper into the intersection of art, spirituality, and cultural heritage, and to understand the significance of maintaining a strong connection with nature in Lepcha traditions.
