Introductieworkshop Thangka Tekenen

A delightful workshop 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 such things as 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.

Carmen about the process of painting a thangka (in Happinez Magazine): De Tibetaanse Thangka – Spiegel van de geest

What can I expect on this day?

This day consists of a guided meditation, lecture on the Art of Thangka and 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 inspires and guides each at his own level (you don't have 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. It helps you, among other things, to visualize better in your meditation
• For those who want to start a fascinating journey in Tibetan art 
• And for anyone who is just curious and interested in art in general and/or Buddhism in particular!

This day is suitable for people with and without drawing experience. We have seen that most people who begin 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 in the fact of what you offer and show us all. It's not just any class you teach, but everything you say, you stand behind it. 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 centers around the world for over twenty 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 teachings 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 meter-long floor paintings of the "Eight Lucky Symbols" she created to welcome the Dalai Lama to the Netherlands. For more information: www.tibetanbuddhistart.com

Practical information

• Day: Sunday June 1 
• Time: 10.00 - 17.00 hrs. With an hour lunch break (bring your own sandwich or find one of the many nice places nearby)
• Language: English (mogelijkheid tot verheldering in het Nederlands)
• 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
• Last minute registration: Please also email amsterdam@maitreya.nl to make sure we can send you the necessary information to join us.

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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