Birgitte Nena Thurman
Founder · Lifetime Achievement Award
The Art of Freedom Award
Dedicated to Creating a World of Wisdom & Compassion
Tibet House US established the Art of Freedom Award in 1998 to recognize individuals for their outstanding contributions toward the Tibetan cause. This annual award honors extraordinary service, achievements, and generosity that promote and preserve Tibetan culture in accordance with the founding aims of Tibet House US.
2026 Lifetime Achievement Awards
Honoring a lifetime
of commitment.
Robert Tenzin Thurman
Founder · Lifetime Achievement Award, presented posthumously
Michael Douglas
United Nations Messenger of Peace · Lifetime Achievement Award
Ticket Tiers
Snow Lion
$21,000
Includes 12 seats
Dragon
$17,000
Includes 10 seats
Garuda
$11,000
Includes 8 seats
Windhorse
$1,000
Includes 2 seats
Snow Leopard
$550
Includes 1 seat
An extraordinary legacy
About The Honorees.
In 2026, we have the privilege of presenting Lifetime Achievement Awards to Michael Douglas and our founders, Birgitte Nena Thurman and Robert A.F. Thurman, with Robert’s award presented posthumously in recognition of his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.
We honor Michael Douglas for his humanitarian service as a United Nations Messenger of Peace since 1998 and his steadfast advocacy for peace and nuclear disarmament. We celebrate Birgitte Nena Thurman and Robert A.F. Thurman for their enduring contributions to preserving Tibetan culture and their foundational roles in Tibet House US.