Workshop with Pema Rinzin

Pema Rinzin is a master Tibetan tanka painter and I was lucky enough to attend his workshop here at Mass Art where he is an Artist in residence. On First glance the paintings he has hanging in the gallery are beautiful yet seem simplistic. Thoughts of simplicity fade quickly as you look closer and hear him talk and then demonstrate the art of Tanka painting.
To master the technique one must first study with a master and learn the intricate ways of line movement to then render meticulous sketches. Pema explained the process of preparing the tibetan canvas, readying them to receive the precious stone paint, that can take up to a week to complete. Once the canvas is ready and the sketches are inked the layering of color can commence. Starting with lighter colors he works up to the most intense pigment then finally gold.
The true beauty of these paintings is realized when you watch Pema crush and grind the precious stones into the most vibrant colors to make the paint. He explained such colors can only be found in nature. The pictures are painted with such precision and controlled line and movement you can't help but feel their energy.