Introduction to Tibetan Art and Culture
As more and more people from across the globe show interest in Tibetan Buddhism and are intrigued by the power, tranquillity and beauty of Tibetan Thangka paintings, Karma is offering the unique opportunity of a comprehensive, fun, experiential and informative Introduction to Tibetan art.
This course is for anyone interested in Tibetan culture and religion and wanting to dive deeper into the history, significance, symbolism and applied painting techniques of traditional Tibetan Thangka painting.
Karma will skilfully guide you through elaborate and serene temple complexes steeped in mystic symbolism and pulsating with a living spirituality.
He will give you stimulating explanations of at times bizarre looking images, religious statues and performed ancient rituals.
You will have 10 mornings of practical instructions and experiences from making the canvas, to preparing mineral paints, to learning different painting techniques and stylized forms applied in traditional Thangkas.
You will also have rejuvenating outdoor drawing classes, sitting in the shade of ancient rhododendron trees or by a stream in the mountains – learning how natural shapes of stones, plants, water and clouds are translated into Thangka styles.
You will be immersed in a unique blend of Indian and Tibetan culture and captivated by the intense spiritual diversity of the Dharamshala area. We will visit various Indian and Tibetan attractions, engage with the local community and experience the bustling Indian market life with all its flavours and fragrances.
You will arrive in Amritsar, visiting the famous Golden Temple and you will leave with the images of the Taj Mahal forever ingrained in your memories.
And if you wish to join this course but like to travel with a friend or partner who doesn’t have the same specialized interest and would want to join only our more general cultural activities, we will be happy to arrange that as well. Just contact us for the details of this option.
Karma Sichoe
Karma Sichoe was raised as an orphan in the Tibetan children’s village in Dharamsala. From early on he was intensely interested in painting and very happy to join a traditional Tibetan art school. His main teacher was a famous court painter for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Karma was so inspired by him that he completed a 6-year curriculum after 3 years.
He began his working career as a professional painter at the Norbulingka Institute for Tibetan art and culture, but his free spirit was pulling him towards freelance work.
He started travelling extensively in Nepal and India and was working on commissions for monasteries, schools and individuals.
Karma is also a committed human rights activist. He has organised many events and peace marches, and his compassion, inspiring energy and logistic skills are valued extensively.
Art is my passion and activism my responsibility’.
Over the last 10 years he has become more interested in contemporary art, where influences of his traditional upbringing can clearly be seen and give a poignant charm to his alluring paintings.
Besides working towards various exhibitions, he loves passing on his knowledge. Students from near and far appreciate his skilful guidance.
A nomad and explorer by heart, Karma takes every opportunity for yet another little adventure – alone, with his family, friends or organized groups.
In “Norsang Journeys” you are privileged to experience all of his unique skills and passions – making this Introductory Course a transformative journey of the heart.
Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.
If you are interested and would like to receive more information, please contact us.
As this course is in development, you will have the wonderful opportunity to give suggestions regarding the detailed itinerary and we can take your personal ideas into consideration.