Her Majesty Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck graced the groundbreaking ceremony for the Royal Textile Academy’s phase four construction, today. Along with the ceremony, the RTA also held an exhibition displaying intricate Bhutanese textiles. The day ended with a fashion show on the theme ‘Inspired by Birds and Butterflies of Bhutan’.
The fourth phase includes the construction of an auditorium and a conference centre. According to the RTA, this marks a significant milestone that shows RTA’s commitment to expanding its infrastructure and preserving Bhutan’s cultural heritage.
Addressing the ceremony, Her Majesty Queen Mother Sangay Choden Wangchuck said that the groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to RTA’s commitment to the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage.
Her Majesty Queen Mother said, “the Royal Textile Academy was founded with a clear mission to educate, promote and safeguard Bhutanese textiles. But our ambitions go beyond that. We also aim to share our textile heritage with the world and foster international cooperation through exhibitions and educational projects. In essence, our journey is about celebrating our heritage”
Following the groundbreaking ceremony, an exhibition was held to display the textiles designed by a group of diverse designers. The displays will be open to the public for two months starting tomorrow.
Dhechen Chodron, a fashion designer said, “I would like to thank the RTA for giving us the opportunity for two months to exhibit our products here. The RTA receives tourists almost every day. So, I think it will be a good opportunity for us to be here and sell our products.”
Towards the evening, a fashion show was held showcasing textiles from the Weaving and Dyeing Workshop, which was conducted in August at Khoma in Lhuentse.
Bhutanese textile designs inculcating the essence of the country’s rich biodiversity, especially the endangered species were showcased during the fashion show.
“Firstly, I would like to thank the RTA for conducting this kind of programme. I am from Trashigang and it is difficult to sell my products there. But from a programme like this in Thimphu, it will be helpful for us to sell our products as there are lots of tourists here,” said Damcho Dema, a designer.
According to the RTA, the combined fashion show and exhibition is intended to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the country’s cultural heritage.
Deki Lhazom
Edited by Sherub Dorji
