First-time travellers to the capital city will be welcomed by a striking new installation at Babesa Zero Roundabout: a pinnacle crafted from stacked golden bowls, rising gracefully from a semi-rounded concrete base.

The Prime Minister unveiled this installation titled ‘Living’ yesterday, adding a unique  cultural landmark to Thimphu’s urban landscape.  

Spearheaded by the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development under the Ministry of Home Affairs, the sculpture is a gift from His Majesty the King to the people of Bhutan.

Designed to enhance the entrance to Thimphu, the project began with a design competition launched in January 2023, attracting 29 entries.

Hiroyuki Suzuki, an instructor at the Thimphu Zorig Chusum, won the competition.  The design was refined over a year under the guidance of world-renowned sculptor Sir Antony Gormley. The construction of the sculpture began in April 2024.

The ‘Living’ sculpture embodies the Buddhist concept of reincarnation, symbolising life’s cyclical nature and transformation. It reflects Bhutan’s spiritual heritage while incorporating modern artistic elements, and serves as a powerful symbol of the nation’s commitment to preserving cultural identity in a contemporary context.