Why not start your artistic journey right here at Art Yanttra? Art Yanttra is a contemporary and traditional art space in Thimphu. It offers a window into Bhutanese culture. Art Yanttra gives art lovers worldwide a chance to explore Bhutanese art.
Thimphu itself is Bhutan’s capital. It became the capital in 1955, replacing Punakha. In 1961, Thimphu was officially declared the capital by the 3rd Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
At Art Yanttra you can fall in love with Bhutanese art. You may even take a piece of authentic Bhutanese culture home with you. Art Yanttra is a wonderful place to explore your taste in contemporary and traditional arts.
One visitor named Choi Wangmo described Art Yanttra as an absolute treat. It is especially so for art lovers looking to explore chances of falling in love with Bhutanese art.
Thimphu boasts a rich cultural heritage reflected in its art. The rise of contemporary art in Bhutan is largely due to VAST Bhutan. VAST is the Voluntary Artists Studio Thimphu. It was created by professional artists. Their goal was giving Bhutanese youth a chance to develop artistic potential. They aimed to contribute to society through community service. VAST organizes art classes, workshops, exhibitions, and art shows. They also host conversations and camps.
VAST has two art galleries in Thimphu. The Alaya Gallery is at the Tarayana center. It is about a 10-minute walk from the Centenary Farmers Market. The other VAST art gallery is in the heart of Thimphu. You can find it on the ground floor of Le Meridien Thimphu.
Other art galleries in Thimphu include TWINZ artists. These galleries and Art Yanttra are perfect places to see the fusion of Bhutanese traditional and contemporary arts. If you are lucky, you might meet the artists behind some pieces that catch your eye at Art Yanttra.
Bhutan’s art scene extends beyond galleries. The National Institute of Zorig Chusum trains young people in ancient Bhutanese arts. The thirteen arts or Zorig Chusum are the cornerstone of Bhutanese arts and crafts. These were categorized in the 14th century, during the time of the Desi Tenzin Rabgye.
For Bhutanese craftspeople each piece created has profound meaning. It can represent spirituality, connection with forefathers, or a moment of creative enlightenment. You can visit the National Institute of Zorig Chosum. There you can see the next generation of craftspeople keeping traditional arts alive.
So remember to come and take the chance at Art Yanttra. Because you owe it to yourself and because you deserve it. You can take home not just a souvenir, but a piece of Bhutanese soul.