Meet Our Artist

Artist Statement

"My art is my way of feeling and expressing what lies deep within. It’s not about following trends or imitating others, but about creating something true to myself. I find inspiration in everything around me, from the people I meet to the spiritual energy I connect with. Through my art, I hope to offer others a chance to connect with their emotions and experiences."

Bibek Shrestha, 42, is an accomplished artist whose journey began over 20 years ago when he started learning traditional Thangka in Kathmandu. While he had been creating artwork for two decades, it was only about five or six years ago that he fully embraced his identity as an artist. Over the past few years, he has dedicated himself to using Thangka as a medium to express his thoughts and emotions, gradually making it a more focused and intentional pursuit, allowing him to dive deeper into his spiritual connection and personal experiences.

For Bibek, art is a powerful form of self-expression. His creations are deeply influenced by his personal experiences, spiritual beliefs, and the world around him, whether through relationships, his community, or even the impact of modern technology. In his work, he strives to create something authentic and unique, inviting viewers to connect with their emotions and experiences.

Artistic Approach

• Traditional Techniques: Bibek’s art is rooted in traditional Thangka methods.
• Modern Twist: He blends these techniques with a contemporary perspective.
• Balance and Depth: His work focuses on balance, spirituality, and authenticity.
• Personal Expression: Bibek uses color and form to convey his personal emotions.

Artist Statement

Marsang Tamang, 28, has been working with Thangka art for 10 years. She focuses on using traditional materials such as stone, colors, and gold, bringing a practical approach to her work. Over the years, she has developed a steady, respectful practice, creating pieces that preserve the integrity of Thangka while earning a living from her skill.

Artist Bio:

 Morsang Tamang, 28, has been working with Thangka art for 10 years. She focuses on using traditional materials such as stone, colors, and gold, bringing a practical approach to her work. Over the years, Morsang has developed a steady, respectful practice, creating pieces that preserve the integrity of Thangka while earning a living from her skill.

Artist Statement

"Thangka must be felt from the heart. If there is no inner connection, the work is incomplete. Art is not about competition; it is about responsibility and respect. Over time, I have learned that growth comes from exploring, observing, and allowing yourself to improve. I create not just as work but as a reflection of feeling and connection."

Chitra Lal Tamang, 41, is a Thangka artist from Boudha, Naya Basti, with over 26 years of experience. His journey into Thangka was shaped by its deep cultural and religious significance and the influence of his brothers, who were already practicing the art. His interest in Thangka gradually evolved into a lifelong dedication to learning and refining traditional techniques. Although he has worked in the field for decades, he has fully embraced his identity as an artist only in the past four to five years.

For Chitra, Thangka is not about competition but about responsibility and respect. He believes that true art must come from the heart; without genuine emotion and inner connection, it remains incomplete. While staying rooted in tradition, he continues to explore and grow, allowing his artistic journey to evolve both technically and spiritually.

Artistic Approach

• Cultural Foundation: Rooted in traditional Thangka practices connected to religion and heritage.
• Continuous Growth: Believes learning from the beginning and exploring new approaches strengthens artistic depth.
• Emotional Connection: Values inner feeling and sincerity as essential elements of meaningful art.
• Experimentation: Works with acrylic and stone colors, balancing tradition with exploration.

Artist Statement

“Thangka is my life. Everything I have is because of this art. I believe it is sacred, and I treat it with devotion and respect. I learned from the beginning, from making the canvas to completing the final work, because true understanding comes from the foundation. Through my paintings, I hope people connect with the spirit and meaning behind the art."

Babu Lama, 55, is a devoted Thangka artist based in Boudha, Kathmandu. Inspired by friends, relatives, and local lamas, he chose to formally learning Thangka in Swayambhu, determined to learn the practice from its foundation, from preparing the canvas to completing the finest details.

For Babu, Thangka is not simply a profession but a sacred way of life. He believes his achievements are rooted in this spiritual practice, which he approaches with deep reverence. Skilled in creating complete Thangka works independently, he specializes in motif design and traditional gold detailing, working across mediums. Rooted in devotion and discipline, he continues his artistic journey with a firm attachment to the spiritual and traditional essence of Thangka painting.

Artistic Approach

• Traditional Foundation: Trained in classical Thangka methods from the very beginning, including canvas preparation and finishing techniques.
• Complete Craftsmanship: Designs motifs, compositions, and gold detailing independently.
• Spiritual Devotion: Sees Thangka as sacred and central to his life.
• Continuous Growth: Values learning, refinement, and feedback as part of his artistic journey.

Artist Statement

"For me, Thangka is not just about technique but about the emotion and responsibility it carries. It is a deeply spiritual journey where every piece I create must come from the heart. Through my work, I hope to convey both the depth of tradition and the uniqueness of the personal experience."


Artist Bio:
Sange Moktan, 33, has been painting Thangka art for over 12 years. His journey into Thangka was deeply influenced by his respect for the cultural and religious traditions that the thangka painting represents. His commitment to mastering the art has led him to explore various aspects of Thangka, blending traditional techniques with his personal artistic expression.

Artist Statement

 "Thangka is more than just an art form; it is a spiritual practice. Each piece I create reflects the peace and understanding that I have cultivated over the years. Through Thangka, I connect with the sacred and share my journey of inner tranquility."


Artist Bio:

Nyamnyi Rangdol Lama, 31, has been exploring Thangka art for the past two years. After retiring from monastic life, he began sketching and developing his skills in Thangka, seeing it as a way to express his deep connection with the spiritual world. With his monastic background, Nyamnyi focuses on the spiritual and meditative aspects of the artwork, reflecting his personal experiences of peace and balance which he has developed throughout his life.

Artist Statement

"Thangka is a path of exploration and transformation. It is not just about creating images but about creating an experience. I strive to blend traditional materials with new techniques to create works that honor the past and inspire a deeper connection to the art and spirit."

Artist Bio:
Shila Lama 30, has been working with Thangka for 10 years. Her interest developed into a deeper commitment to mastering this traditional art form. Shila focuses on using stone and gold elements in her pieces, blending traditional materials with her artistic expression. She believes that Thangka can inspire and transform both artists and their audience.

Artist Statement

"Thangka painting is not just about the work; it is about the journey and the spiritual energy that comes with it. Every stroke should be guided by the heart. When painting, I aim to evoke a sense of beauty and truth in every piece, keeping the essence of the journey alive."

Artist Bio:
Sange Thangka, 35, has been dedicated to the art of Thangka for 14 years. Sange considers Thangka a spiritual practice, with a particular focus on the interplay between colors and the energy of the painting process. An artist at heart, he emphasizes the importance of true connection and emotion in every piece created.

Artist Statement

"Thangka is not just a form of art; it is a sacred expression. Every piece I create is born from deep patience and respect. It is about honoring the tradition while infusing each painting with a personal touch that reflects the heart and soul of both the artist and the art itself."

Artist Bio:

Rita Lama, 35, has been dedicated to Thangka art for 13 years. She is inspired by deep cultural meanings and traditional artistic techniques, as she wants to understand how patience, connection, and spiritual development impact the painting process. She strongly believes in the responsibility of the artist to honor the tradition while making personal connections with each piece.

Artist Statement: "Thangka is an expression of patience and enthusiasm. It is about bringing life and energy to every stroke. My work is guided by my passion, as I believe true art comes from both the heart and the spirit of exploration."

Artist Bio:

Ranjit Tamang, 30, brings 10 years of experience to the Thangka art world. He first taught himself the thangka as a job but later discovered his strong bond with the art form. Ranjit discovered through his journey that creative development requires three essential qualities, which include patience and enthusiasm and childlike curiosity.