In this retreat guided by Carmen Mensink, a renowned painter of thangkas; the traditional Tibetan scroll paintings of Buddhas and mandalas, you’ll learn how to traditionally draw (or paint) a Buddha, by using the ancient grid proportions of Carmen’s thangka lineage as a helpful tool. 

In this retreat you’ll learn different colored pencil techniques and are also welcome to work with other materials such as watercolor, pastels, or paints. In addition to the art sessions you’ll discover the background, symbolism, and mantras of these Buddhas, and enjoy guided meditations.

When Buddhism traveled from India to other countries in Asia, its deities traveled along as well. This way, Avalokiteshvara (the Indian Bodhisattva of Compassion) became known in other countries under a different name, and through the centuries slowly changed form.

The two most famous manifestations of compassion became Guan Yin and Chenrezig, and in this retreat you can choose either one of them to draw (and maybe paint) as your subject:

Guan Yin
Guan Yin became famous in China, Korea and Japan, but is now famous all over the world. Over the centuries this deity slowly changed from a male into a female form, a fascinating story that you’ll learn all about in this course. In this retreat we will draw the female Guan Yin in the most common forms; the standing and seated Guan Yin.

Suitable for everyone
Through her inspired approach and guidance, Carmen helps to bring out the best in each student, and makes this retreat suitable for students of all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced.

Drawing experience is not necessary. New students will first learn the basics by drawing a Buddha Face before continuing with this week’s subject. The Buddha Face course can also be taken beforehand, online at Carmen’s School for Tibetan Buddhist Art (this will save you time at Arts Week so you can immediately start with Chenrezig or Guan Yin).

You will return home with your own beautiful artwork(s).

NOTE: more advanced thangka students who want to create Amoghapasha, the Eight-armed or Thousand-armed Chenrezig, or need the specific list of supplies to paint a traditional thangka can contact Carmen directly by sending an email. 

Choose between a 6- and an 8-day Retreat

• In the 6-day retreat (June 29-July 4) you’ll be able to draw your subject, discover its symbolism and learn the coloring techniques
• The 8-day retreat (June 29-July 6) will in addition teach you the traditional painting techniques, the possibility to start painting your subject, and in general will give you an even more in-depth experience

If you want to create meaningful art in a meditative setting -and a joyful experience that lasts much longer than the course itself!- this is the retreat for you.