My Thangka Painting Journey

THIS IS MY FIRST COMPLETE THANGKA PAINTING! Completed under the guidance of my father, Master Locho, the painting took me two complete months. A piece of cloth gets transformed into a sacred image. A thangka painting is a culmination of several steps. At first the canvas is prepared, then the drawing is transferred or made directly on the canvas. After inking the drawing, the paints are applied. Dry and wet shading is done followed by outlining. After outlining, pure gold details are applied. This is followed by the opening of the eyes- symbolizing imparting life and soul to the image. The painting is thereafter mounted in silk brocade and finally consecrated in order to become auspicious and powerful.