Dechen Wangmo, Sangay Tshomo and Tshering Yuden

Kinzang Chojay, a 38-year-old master of Buddhist thangka painting, unveiled his solo exhibition yesterday at the Buddhist Art Gallery in Kawajangsa, Thimphu.

The event marked a significant milestone in his career as an artist having dedicated over two decades to the traditional art form.

Kinzang Chojay’s journey into the world of art began at the age of 16 when he enrolled at the Institute of Zorig Chusum, Bhutan’s premier institution for traditional arts. Under the guidance of his teacher Lopen Thinley Wangdi and his brother Kinzang Wangdi, he honed his skills in the intricate and sacred craft of thangka painting.

With over 22 years of experience, Kinzang Chojay has created hundreds of thangkas for temples and monasteries across Bhutan.

This is his first solo exhibition. Laytshog Lopen inaugurated the exhibition. Opposition Leader Dasho Pema Chewang and sponsors from Singapore, who have supported his artistic endeavours, were also present.

The exhibition showcases a variety of thangka paintings, created using traditional materials such as mineral pigments, including natural earth colours like orange, white, red, black, and blue, as well as rock indigo, vermillion, and 24-carat gold.

According to Kinzang Chojay, these natural and eco-friendly materials are integral to preserving the authenticity of Bhutanese thangka art, making each piece a reflection of the spiritual devotion and cultural heritage behind the art form.

“This is my first solo exhibition, and it holds great importance as it reflects our Bhutanese art tradition and culture. Today, many artists are moving towards commercialising their work and adopting easier methods, forgetting the ancient techniques that make thangka painting unique.” Kinzang Chojay said. “What makes our art special is the use of eco-friendly, natural pigments, which infuse the paintings with a deeper connection to the environment and spirituality.”

Laytshog Lopen praised his commitment to maintaining the traditional methods of thangka painting that have been passed down through generations.

The exhibition, which runs till January 30, 2025 is a celebration of Kinzang Chojay’s artistic achievements and the rich cultural heritage and spiritual depth embodied in Bhutan’s thangka art tradition.

In addition to his artistic contributions, Kinzang Chojay is the author of the book ‘The Art of Enlightenment’.