Although Castleman was born in Germany, she has studied in many places all over the world, including Italy, California, and Penn State. With her photographs, Castleman said she wants to bring the sights, sounds and feelings of India to her viewer.
"India, being so rich in cultures, is absolutely captivating, it delights all of your senses," Castleman said.
Lauren Chyle, gallery publicist, said she thinks the exhibit is excellent not only for the skill showcased in the photographs, but also because it portrays a setting foreign to what Penn State students are usually exposed to.
"I think it is a beautiful collection and gives a nice look at a country, and culture that many Americans might not be familiar with," Chyle said. "The technical and aesthetic quality of the photographs is incredible."
Chyle said even if students do not have a lot of time to spend in the exhibit, it is still worth seeing.
"I think it is worth it for everyone on campus, students and [non-students], to be aware that the exhibit is there," Chyle said. "When walking across campus, instead of going around the building, cut through. People should take a minute or two for themselves, let their minds wander and quietly enjoy some wonderful photography."
Katie Meyer (freshman-accounting) said she really enjoyed all of the photographs.
"The exhibit is very moving," Meyer said. "I think it's cool how she actually traveled there. She was able to capture not only the people but also their environment, the places where they live. It is very inspirational and beautiful."
The topics of the photographs from Castleman's travels include the Taj Mahal, an old man in traditional attire and paint and a cart full of laughing young people on a dusty road.
"My favorite picture is the one of the marble screen at Amber Fort," Castleman said, "Because the screen diffuses the bright sunlight and creates such a soft interplay of light and shadow with a mysterious mood -- I stood there for several minutes in total awe."
Castleman said her picture of a young girl offering flowers and candles to float on the Ganges River during a Hindu ceremony plays a close second as her favorite.
"I love this girl's facial expression, with such captivating eyes," she said. "She is shy but so proud that I was taking her picture."
Castleman also said she wants to convey to her viewers the knowledge and experience that she has gained from her journey.
"I hope to share the diversity of peoples, sharp contrasts, complexity, cultures, beliefs, and deeply rooted traditions that I have encountered in my travels," Castleman said. "I will never forget its traditional architecture, art and music, the vibrant colors, arresting vistas, delicious food and last not least of all, its engaging people."
Heather Shadduck (freshman-political science) said she thinks the photographs come together to enhance the space and tone of the spiritual building.
"They really add to the spiritual center," she said. "I think that it is a great idea to have the photographs on display here because they give students a different perspective to think about."
Along with this and other solo and juried exhibitions, Castleman has also had her photo essays in various magazines, as well as multiple cover photos for the magazine German Life.
"Traveling to India is about experiencing the most mystical and enchanting places," Castleman said. "You are sure to discover the spiritual soul of the ancient country."
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