The Sacred Art of Painting
Among the thirteen traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, Lhadri—the art of traditional painting—holds a place of profound cultural and spiritual significance. At the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (NIZC) in Thimphu, this sacred craft is taught with meticulous care, preserving centuries-old techniques and symbolism that are central to Bhutanese identity.
Lhadri, which literally means “divine painting,” is not merely decorative. It is a sacred expression of Bhutan’s deeply spiritual heritage, most often manifested through thangka paintings, wall murals, wooden embellishments, and religious iconography. These artworks are created in accordance with strict iconographic guidelines drawn from Buddhist scriptures, where every line, color, and proportion carries deep meaning.
At NIZC, aspiring painters undergo a comprehensive six-year program under the guidance of experienced masters. Training begins with the basics—drawing straight lines, curves, and circles freehand, before progressing to intricate religious motifs, deities, and symbols. Students learn the traditional methods of preparing canvas, grinding natural pigments, and applying gold leaf, all of which require immense patience and precision.
One of the hallmarks of Bhutanese painting is its vibrant yet balanced use of color, symbolic of various virtues and spiritual concepts. Blue represents purity and healing; red signifies power and transformation; yellow denotes knowledge and learning. These colors are not chosen for aesthetic appeal alone, but to convey the deeper purpose of the artwork—to inspire, protect, and teach.
What sets Lhadri apart from modern painting styles is its devotional foundation. Every stroke is considered an act of offering. Thus, students are taught not only techniques but also the spiritual discipline and humility that underlie the art. Instructors often remind them that true mastery lies not just in skill, but in intention.
Graduates of the Lhadri course contribute significantly to the conservation of Bhutanese art and architecture. Many are commissioned for temple restorations, mural projects, and the creation of thangka paintings for religious and cultural institutions across the country and abroad. Through their hands, Bhutan’s timeless visual language continues to thrive.
In a fast-changing world, the practice of Lhadri at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum serves as a vital bridge between tradition and modernity. It reminds us that art is not only seen—it is felt, revered, and passed on with devotion.
