Local artists can now have free exhibitions of their work at the National Museum of Bhutan in Paro for a minimum of three months. This is a first-of-its-kind initiative to improve ties between the community and museums, giving artists a stage to showcase their skills and engage in cross-cultural discourse. It is expected to boost their livelihoods through visibility and acknowledgement. Today marked the opening of the inaugural exhibition of a lone contemporary artist.
Home Affairs Minister, Tshering launched the initiative. It is a part of the National Museum’s commitment to effectively interact with local communities in the 13th Five-Year Plan. It is expected to increase visitors at the museum and give local artisans a place to sell their works.
“Our primary goal is to give artists a stage that allows them to display their abilities on a national scale. If not, there are not many means for artists to earn in Bhutan. Through this event, we hope to accommodate both traditional and contemporary art,” said Sonam Tenzin, Officiating Director of the National Museum.
Tshering Penjor, a 55-year-old self-taught artist, received an invitation to display his artwork today. He has an art gallery in Paro and participated in international exhibitions in Mongolia, China, India, and the United States. This is the first time he is displaying his artwork in the country.
“When we get visitors to our art gallery in the town, people frequently mistake us for handicraft sellers. As a result, not many people acknowledge our works. Through the National Museum’s initiative, we, as well as our arts are acknowledged and appreciated by tourists.”
The museum will provide the platform for free for a period of three months per artist. It will also be inviting artists of all trades to participate in an exhibition of their work. Officials at the museum said that they have space for expansion and that they intend to invite more than three artists simultaneously.
So far this year, 4,000 local visitors and 12,000 tourists visited the museum.
Namgay Wangchuk, Paro
Edited by Kipchu
