Imagine entering into a room, where every wall, every corner evokes a deep connection with the Earth. The Voluntary Artists Studio, Thimphu or VAST Bhutan has created such a space in an exhibition titled ‘Portraiture in Earth Colours’. 32 artists have displayed 42 of their artworks created using earthy materials.
From the paintings of Guru Rinpoche to the contemporary art of a girl, the artists have only used paints made of materials found in the country such as mud, sand, soil, plants, and wood.
Each painting is crafted with colours, which resemble nature, soil, and the natural elements found on the Earth, showcasing a sense of authenticity and connection to nature.
“On the joyous occasion of His Majesty’s birthday, we opened the ‘Portraiture in Earth Colours’. A group art collection of 42 different artworks by 32 artists, all done on the theme ‘Portraiture in Earth Colours’. They have used art materials such as wood, stone pigment, plant pigment, and especially the mud earth colours,” said Karma Tenzin Choden, the Gallery Art Director at VAST Bhutan.
Kinley Penjor, an artist said, “For me, this is the first time I am using natural pigments. I have used soil painting on my canvas and my painting is on ‘Pergendum’ a Latin word, which means moving forward. We struggle to move forward and to live in the present.”
The month-long exhibition started on the 21st of February commemorating His Majesty’s 44th birthday.
Sonam Pelkid (Intern)
Edited by Sangay Chezom
