Thanka and Lumbini Buddhist Thanka Painting School

Thanka is excellent piece of Tibetan art works. Thanka is a Tibetan painting depicting various facts of Buddhism of mystic sect. Thanka is painted on silk or cotton fabrics using bright colors of many hues.Thanka is of exceptional quality, hand-painted by Nepali and Tibetan artist. The word "Thanka" is believed to have come from the Tibetan word "thang yig" meaning a written record. Thanka are used as wall -decorations. For, Lamas Thanka is object of religious importance. Thanka is an object of devotion, an aid to spiritual practice, and a bringer of blessings.

On the basis of techniques involved and materials used thanka can be grouped into several categories. Generally they are divided into two broad categories: those which are painted (called bris-than in Tibetan) and those which are made of silk either by weaving or with embroidery (called gos-than). The painted thanka are further divided into five categories:

• Thanka with different colors in the background
• Thanka with a gold background
• Thanka with a red background
• Thanka with a black background
• Thanka whose outlines are printed on cotton support and then touched up with colors.

When we are in Nepal we will first visit Sukha and his family at Bungamati Foundation Nepal.
For more information: Bungamati Foundation Nepal

After we have worked with the teachers and children and have finished the first research round we will return to Kathmandu and visit Anil. Anil has invited us to visit the Lumbini Buddhist Thanka Painting School. We are very excited to meet him and his friends and are thrilled to be able to learn more about the techniques used in this beautiful artwork. Furthermore we would like to learn more about traditions and intentions that form the base of Thanka painting.

Anil knows his way around in Kathmandu ofcoz, he lives there, and he has said he will take us hiking into nature, to show us one of the most beautiful spots around there… we can hardly wait!

To learn more about the Thanka Painting school check out this link:
Lumbini Buddhist Thanka Painting School

I would like to see a White Tārā, also known for compassion, long life, healing and serenity; also known as The Wish-fulfilling Wheel, or Cintachakra. From the beginning White Tara has entered my heart somehow… White Tara and White Lotus :)

Much to see & experience, and eager to learn!

Again something beautiful we will be able to experience when we are in Nepal… ain’t we lucky….
*looking forward*

White Tara, by Lumbini Buddhist Thanka Painting School

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