Ashish Ranjan
According to The Bhutan Live, the Voluntary Artist Studio of Thimphu, also known as , is a site where budding artists with a passion for art can go.Since its inception in 1998, VAST’s primary objective has been to provide a venue for young Bhutanese artists to refine their skills and exhibit their talents. VAST, located in Chubachu, thrives on the creativity of emerging local artisans.
VAST is collaborating with White Canvas Thailand, Eastern Culture Foundation Japan, and Bhutan Acorn Tours and Travel to organise an art competition.At the studio, the competition is exhibiting the work of local artists. Nearly sixty artists compete in the White Canvas Bhutan Art competition.
The youngest artist is five years old.According to The Bhutan Live, the first thing you will notice upon entering the VAST studio is the lingering odour of paint. After a few stages, you will see the participants’ exquisite artwork.”Whenever I have time, I attempt to paint,” said Kinzang Chophel, 31, who contributed an artwork to the competition.
His artwork depicts traditional Bhutanese homes in ruins with trees sprouting from them. Young and capable Bhutanese are leaving the country, according to him, representing the current health of the country.”I wish to illustrate the state of the nation. Our youth should remain and contribute to the development of our nation “Kinzang stated, according to The Bhutan Live.
Tashi Pelzom, another artist, painted an image of a portable prayer wheel. To her, the artwork represents decrepit age.”When we are young, we do not give our Buddhist values and the religion in general much thought. But as we age, we become increasingly attracted to Buddhist teachings. The prayer wheel becomes our sole companion in the end “said Tashi.
According to Bhutan Daily, every painting in the exhibition is worth a thousand words.Ugyen Dorji has been interested in art since he was twelve years old. His father was also an artist.The artwork of Ugyen depicts a riot of colour in the guise of war. According to him, this demonstrates the futility of ego. “This is the current state of the universe. When two world leaders’ egos collide, only destruction and war result.”
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These creators of magnificent works of art are society’s mild rebels. According to The Bhutan Daily, they reveal the pulse of a changing society through a kaleidoscope of colours and eerie stories.
