Green Tara is the most famous female Buddha and the manifestation of Active Compassion.
She extends her hand -like a mother reaching out to her child- to help all beings where needed.

Tara is one of the most revered Buddhas in the Tibetan tradition, and there are many stories of people who were saved from dire circumstances while chanting her mantra or invoking Tara’s name. She’s is also seen as one of the first emancipated women.

In this week you will choose either Green Tara or the Green Tara Mandala as your subject, and learn how to draw it by using the ancient grid proportions of Carmen’s lineage as a helpful tool.

In addition to the art sessions you will learn all about the background, symbolism and mantra of Green Tara, and enjoy guided meditations.

To work out your drawing you will learn colored pencil techniques, and you are also welcome to work with other materials (e.g. watercolor, ink, pastel).

You can also use the special thangka painting techniques (more advisable for advanced students).

Carmen Mensink is an internationally renowned painter of thangkas; traditional Tibetan scroll paintings of Buddhas and Mandalas. Her personal approach and guidance makes this retreat suitable for students on all levels.

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 Green Tara).

Through her inspired approach, Carmen helps to bring out the best in you, and you will return home with your own beautiful artwork.

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.