Introduction in Thangka Art

A delightful day with 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 of, for example, Buddhas and Mandalas, painted according to an ancient Tibetan tradition.
Why are Tibetan Thangkas drawn & painted?

A thangka is more than just art; it opens a window to spirituality by combining craftsmanship with deep symbolism, clarifying the path to enlightenment. Every detail on a thangka tells a story, inviting people to reflect and grow.

 

What to expect on this day?

This day consists of a guided meditation, lecture on the Art of Thangka, a meditative workshop, in which you will learn to draw a Buddha face yourself according to the ancient proportions that serve as a basis.

Carmen will inspire and guide each at their own level - you do not need to have any drawing experience - and will also explain the iconography and symbolism behind your drawing.

Who is this introductory day for?

    For anyone interested in the symbolism of the Buddha
    For those who want to deepen their (Buddhist) practice.
    Among other things, it will help you visualise better in your meditation.
    For those who want to make a start on the fascinating journey in Tibetan art
    And for anyone just curious and interested in art in general and/or Buddhism in particular!

This day is suitable for people with and without drawing experience. It has been found that most people who start thangka drawing have no drawing experience at all.

What do others say about the workshop?

"Drawing the Face of Buddha had something exciting, surprising and comforting."

"Drawing a thangka is a meditation for me."

"Your great wealth of knowledge and skill is evident from the fact of what you offer and show us all. It's not just any class you teach: everything you say, you stand for. I thank you for your commitment, your encouragement and your enthusiasm."

Who is Carmen Mensink?

Carmen lives and works in Amsterdam and paints and teaches Tibetan Buddhist art & philosophy. She has been teaching and lecturing at museums, universities and centres around the world for over 20 years. She also restores thangkas and gilds and paints Buddha statues. In addition, she can be found in dozens of publications.

The enthusiasm and dedication Carmen expresses in her classes have already guided and inspired thousands of people on the path of Buddhist art.

Carmen is also in demand for related forms of Tibetan art, including the metre-long floor paintings of the 'Eight Lucky Symbols' she created to welcome the Dalai Lama to the Netherlands.

For more information, visit www.tibetanbuddhistart.com

Practical information

•     Day: Sunday October 20
•     Time: from 10.00 - 17.00 with one hour lunch break (bring your own sandwich or find one of the many nice places nearby)
•     Language: English (questions can be asked in Dutch)
•     Location: Maitreya Institute Amsterdam (not online)
•     Materials: All drawing materials are included
•     Advice: Bring slippers or thick socks and a notebook if necessary
•     Minimum number of participants: This day will take place with a minimum of 8 participants
•     Late registration: Please also email amsterdam@maitreya.nl to ensure we can send you the necessary information to join.

Donation

Dāna (generosity) is one of the cornerstones of the Buddhist path. Your donation will keep our dharma centre, which is run entirely by volunteers, going. The recommended donation for this workshop is 60 euros, including drawing materials. For those on a tight budget, we suggest 40 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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