THANGKA PAINTER
In 11th-century Tibet, thangkas were evocative visual instruments within an oral tradition, complementing Buddhist teachings. These scroll paintings depicted stories of Buddha’s enlightenment and religious figures, often used by travelling lamas to convey Buddhist philosophy. The meticulous precision of thangka art—characterized by strict grids and proportions—ensured faithful storytelling, with artists remaining anonymous to emphasize the spiritual message rather than the curator. In contrast, modern art emphasizes individual expression.
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Although he trained as a traditional thangka painter under the influence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Norbu’s work maintains core thangka principles while embracing a distinctly personal identity. His work reflects the essence of Tibet yet integrates Western imagery. For instance, dutch symbols like tulips, windmills, and wooden shoes alongside modern technology such as mobile phones and laptops are depicted. His paintings are rich, layered narratives, mixing humour, flow, and creative consistency. Each viewing reveals new details—some deeply personal, others with strict symbology—showcasing the skill and depth of an artist grounded in both traditional culture and the artistic landscape of the modern era. Tashi explains:
“Apart from being ruthless, change gives hope to us Tibetans. We have to grow out of our present situation, as the lotus grows out of the mud, by accepting change, nourishing the Buddha nature of ourselves in the modern world, and revealing our faults fearlessly. If we grow within ourselves, we gain freedom.”
Norbu’s work continues to explore the interplay between Western influences and Tibetan importance, striving to balance the dynamic energy of the abstract with the meditative essence of Tibetan Buddhism. Tashi Norbu personifies balance in a growing movement towards social and spiritual transformation in art and society.
Institute of Tibetan Works and Archives (LTWA)/Traditional Thangka Painting. Dharamsala, India