So I've been taking thangka painting classes once a year with Andy Weber, whenever he makes it to the States. This is my very first thangka, the White Tara we did last year (I finished it during this year's session).
Designer's gouache and 24k gold on hot-press illustration board. Andy taught us how to make a traditional canvas, and my next thangka is in progress on one of those. It makes a huge difference - the canvas is less absorbent and more durable, so in many ways it is easier to work with.
Making these paintings is very different from making personal works. Every single item in the painting has a meaning, a purpose, and specific proportions and colors. You know exactly what it is supposed to look like. There are no doubts about composition, pose, or similar. It is far more meditative and focused than making original art.
We start our working sessions with a meditation, and then the students take shifts repeating the appropriate mantra throughout. As we work, we are surrounded by the mantra. Whenever I pause to check my work, instead of the usual monkey-mind chatter, I find myself thinking of the mantra, keeping me focused. We then close each session with another meditation and the dedication of merit. It's an amazing experience, and one I highly recommend.
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Mama Ayuh Pune Jana Putim Kuru Soha
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha
