Home > Courses > AUSTRIA / Vienna / Nov 14-16 / Medicine Buddha

During this weekend course you will learn how to draw the Medicine Buddha according to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
The Medicine Buddha (Tib.: Sangye Menla) is the embodiment of all healing activities of the Buddhas, which are associated with healing both physical and mental suffering.

His deep blue color is that of lapis lazuli. Traditionally this precious stone was used to symbolize what was purely rare. In addition, this deep blue light has a healing effect when you work with it through visualization meditations (which we will also do this weekend).
In his left hand the Medicine Buddha holds a begging bowl filled with medicinal nectar and fruit. In his right hand he holds a special plant, known as the ‘King of Healing’, which is known for its effectiveness in treating both mental and physical diseases.

Through a combination of drawing, lectures and meditations this weekend, you will not only make a connection with the Medicine Buddha, it also gives you drawing so much more depth. In addition to experiencing the meditational way of  thangka drawing, you will learn all about the backgrounds and symbolism of Medicine Buddha. You will also learn the Mantra of the Medicine Buddha, learn its meaning how to work with it.

Drawing an enlightened image like this Buddha is a meditation in itself and creates inner calmness and joy.
If you are a Buddhist practitioner, drawing this Buddha image significantly improves visualization in your meditations.

Fri 14 Nov:  Evening Lecture
Start of the weekend course with a lecture on Medicine Buddha’s background and iconography, followed by Q&A.
Sat 15 + Sun 16 Nov:  Learn to draw the Medicine Buddha

The use of materials is included!

NOTE: This course is for students on all levels, also those without drawing experience. The prerequisite for this course is the workshop ‘Buddha Face’, see box below

PREREQUISITE: Buddha Face Workshop

Traditionally one learns to draw the Face of the Buddha before drawing the Medicine Buddha, therefore this is the prerequisite for taking this weekend course.There are two ways of taking this workshop:

In-Person the evening before, at the same location:
13 Nov 2025: Introduction to the Art of Thangka + Creating the Face of the Buddha

Online before the weekend course starts: 
Buddha Face Workshop, Online at the School for Tibetan Buddhist Art

More Info & Registration

SCHEDULE / COST / MATERIALS

Date & Time:
Friday 14 – Sunday 16 Nov, 2025
Fri: 19.00-20.30
Sat: 15 10.00-18.00 (with lunch break)
Sun: 16 10.00-17.00 (with lunch break)

Course Fee:
€160 including the use of materials*

*We have drawing paper, pencils, erasers and rulers for you to use.
If you prefer to bring your own materials in addition, as well as colored pencils, please do so.
You may also want to bring a notebook and pen to make notes during this class.