Thangka Art: Drawing Animals
A wonderful day with the renowned Thangka painter Carmen Mensink
“The Tibetan Thangka is a mirror of the mind.” – Happinez Magazine
What is a Thangka?
Thangkas are Buddhist scroll paintings depicting, for example, Buddhas and mandalas, painted according to an ancient Tibetan tradition.
Why are Tibetan Thangkas drawn and painted?
A thangka is more than just art; it opens a window onto spirituality by combining craftsmanship with deep symbolism, thereby illuminating the path to enlightenment. Every detail on a thangka tells a story, inviting people to reflect and grow.
The workshop: Drawing Animals in Tibetan art
During this special one-day workshop on World Animal Day, you will learn to draw animals as they are depicted in the traditional Tibetan thangka tradition. Animals depicted include, for example, deer, yaks, fish and birds. They form part of the landscape surrounding a Buddha on a thangka.
Animals are important in Tibetan Buddhism in any case, as it is recognised that all sentient beings want exactly the same thing as we humans: simply to be happy and not to suffer.
The day begins with a short meditation and a talk on the background and symbolism of animals in the Tibetan tradition, after which you’ll get to work yourself.
Who is this introductory workshop for?
- For anyone interested in the art of Thangka drawing
- For those who wish to deepen their (Buddhist) practice.
- Among other things, it helps you to visualise more effectively during your meditation
- For anyone wishing to embark on a fascinating journey into Tibetan art
- And for anyone who is simply curious and interested in art in general and/or Buddhism in particular!
This day is suitable for everyone, including beginners with no drawing experience whatsoever. All materials are included!
What do others say about the workshop?
“For me, drawing a thangka is a form of meditation.”
“Your vast wealth of knowledge and skill is evident in everything you offer and show us. It’s not just any ordinary lesson you give: you truly stand behind everything you say. Thank you for your dedication, your encouragement and your enthusiasm.”
Who is Carmen Mensink?
Carmen lives and works in Amsterdam, where she paints and teaches Tibetan Buddhist art and philosophy. She has been giving lessons and lectures at museums, universities and centres around the world for over twenty years. She also restores thangkas and gilds and paints Buddha statues. In addition, she has been featured in dozens of publications. The enthusiasm and dedication Carmen brings to her lessons have already guided and inspired thousands of people on the path of Buddhist art.
Click here for an interview with Carmen Mensink for the Dutch tv.
Carmen is also sought after for related forms of Tibetan art, including the metre-long floor paintings of the ‘Eight Auspicious Symbols’ which she created to welcome the Dalai Lama to the Netherlands. For more information, visit www.tibetanbuddhistart.com
Practical information
- Day: Sunday October 4
- Time: 10.30 - 17.00 hrs. With an hour lunch break (bring your own sandwich or find one of the many nice places nearby)
- Language: Dutch (with possibility for English translation and guidance)
- Location: Maitreya Instituut Amsterdam, Tilanusstraat 8A
- Materials: All necessary materials will be provided
- Advice: Bring some thick socks and possibly a notebook
- Minimum number of participants: 8 (max. 16)
- Last minute registration: Please also email amsterdam@maitreya.nl to confirm your spot.
Donations
Dāna (generosity) is one of the cornerstones of the Buddhist path. Your donation will keep our Dharma center, which is run entirely by volunteers, going. The recommended donation for this workshop is 70 euros, including drawing materials. For people with a narrow budget, we suggest 50 euros. Should you wish to make use of this option, please do not hesitate to email us at amsterdam@maitreya.nl.
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