Tibetan Thanka Painting: Portrayal of Mysticism

The Tibetan Buddhist art form of Thanka painting is an integral part of the heritage of the Tibetan people. It is a visual and symbolical representation of the spiritual deities in which they utilise on the path to enlightenment. As its cultural significance is so great, it is important that the artist portrays the figures with the right motivation, has good ethics and morals, be artistically creative enough to depict these forms in a manner befitting their spiritual significance, and be able to clearly convey these values to the initiated and the uninitiated alike. In this book, Pema Namdol Thaye helps to deepen the reader’s understanding of the Tibetan art of Thanka painting through a clear and authentic explanation. The author’s dedication as a professional Tibetan Thanka painter in preserving and promoting this Tibetan art form is inspiring". H.H. The Dalai Lama This innovative Master Artist is not only committed to bringing the mystical beauty of Tibetan painting to the world at large, but also the beauty of the spiritual concepts and in depth philosophy. The diversity of topics covered in this book is sure to appeal to a wide variety of people. It covers a range of areas regarding various aspects of the art in five sections:The origin and development of the art in Tibet: briefly describes the art’s derivation from Tibet’s neighboring countries, and subsequent development, during the previous centuries. The philosophy of the artist: clarifies the artist’s perception of his art and how this assists him to accomplish the work to his required standard. Types of figures: explains the various types and significance of the figures represented in the Thankas. The processes involved in Thanka painting: explains the many varied methods utilised. The explanation and depiction of selected figures: describes the story and symbolism of the exhibition and commissioned pieces, with many of the figure’s stories never previously published in the English language, and it is also the first reproduction of the majority of the pieces. This remarkable book spans Pema Namdol’s work over more than ten years. For the first time a Tibetan Artist gives a rare insight into his work and shares his passion, his thoughts and his methods of the processes involved, from the technical to the metaphysical, in the creation of a spiritual masterpiece. This beautiful and informative book is a must of Tibetologists, scholars, students, artists, those intrigued by Buddhism, and those who simply wish to share his passion and enjoy the pages of ethereal beauty.