Traditionally, Thangkas are painted with natural mineral pigment, earth pigment and plant dye. The traditional thangka paining depicts the images of various Buddhist deities, and can also be used as teaching tools when depicting historical events in the life of Buddha. This religious art is believed to be a meditation tool to help the practitioners further down the path to enlightenment. For individuals conscious of the deeper meaning portrayed in these artworks, Thangka paintings are not just an attractive artwork, but an epitome of universal truth. Thangka painting is strictly governed by iconographic rules passed down over thousands of years. The symbols, gestures, colours, images, sizes and shapes – all have underlying meanings. The physical image becomes a base to support the presence of the divinity portrayed in the mind of the worshipper. Buddhists believe that commissioning an image brings merit for the donor as well as to all conscious beings.
Hand-ground Paint
Where possible, I follow the traditional way, grinding natural drawing stones and minerals into the finest pigment powders. These pigments then used to make different paints, that are traditionally used in thangka paintings. The colours yielded by the minerals are brilliant,
pure, and bright, yet at the same time soft, pastel, and organic. I think that of all the
modern paints available nowadays, nothing compares to real mineral-based pigments.
It’s hard to understand how these pigments can hold such seemingly contradictory
qualities without seeing them for oneself. Paints formulated in a laboratory cannot compare.
This workshop will suit anyone interested in Buddhist art, from beginners through to professional artists. Drawing skills are not essential, just a love of Art.
10 Day course Basic tools &Materials supplied
