One of the world's great museums — some 500 caves at Dunhuang filled with Buddhist painting and sculpture — were created over 1,000 years, between the 4th and 14th centuries, on the Silk Road in northwest China. Using compelling images, Mimi Gates, director emerita of the Seattle Art Museum, introduces these magnificent Buddhist caves and their art, explaining why, how and for whom they were created, and how they are being preserved today.

Then, enjoy a rare opportunity to hear from the celebrated director of the Dunhuang Academy, Fan Jinshi, who tells her inspiring story of 50 years of dedicated effort to preserve this irreplaceable World Heritage site.