Thangka paintings are intricate Tibetan Buddhist artworks on cotton or silk, each telling a unique story. They typically depict Buddhist and Hindu deities, meditating Buddha, his life cycle, Wheel of Life, Mandala, and more. The name “Thangka” means “a rolled message” in Tibetan, as monks and lamas used these portable paintings to spread Buddhist teachings.
Creating an exquisite Thangka painting is an intensive process and requires months of dedication. The canvas is stretched on a wooden frame, washed multiple times, and coated with a base pigment. Designs are drawn according to guidelines. Earlier traditional natural pigments and real gold dust were used to fill colours. They have now been replaced wirh Acrylic colours.
Traditionally, Thangkas are stored rolled up and unframed when not on display.
I’m thrilled to get myself a mini Thangka painting! Would you like to get one too?”
