The National Institute for Zorig Chusum also referred to, as the painting school is an initiative of the Bhutanese government to preserve local art and culture. The school provides four to six-year courses for students in Bhutan’s thirteen traditional arts including calligraphy, painting, sculpture, wood carving, casting, pottery, embroidery, tailoring, weaving, masonry, silver and gold smithy. Established in 1971, the school is seen as a foundation to protect and preserve the invaluable heritage of arts and crafts in Bhutan.
If you are visiting the country and worried about finding good accommodation, don’t worry there are plenty of luxury hotels in Bhutan such as the COMO Uma by COMO Hotels & Resorts; that are well-equipped. During your stay in Bhutan, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum where you can witness the effortless talents of the youngsters studying in the school.
The art taught in Bhutan today was introduced to the country by the treasure discoverer Terton Pema Lingpa during the fifteenth century. The traditional crafts taught in the school represent the knowledge and ability that has been passed down to many generations over hundreds of years. During the 4-6 year training, the students board at the institute’s hostel where they receive all necessary facilities which is financed by the government.
The Institute for Zorig Chusum falls under the National Technical Training Authority, which was created in 1999 to look after the quality of vocational training. For over thirty years the institute has instructed students in the thirteen areas of study. The school has been fortunate to receive generous grants from the Netherlands, which has helped to improve the curriculum and facilities. Apart from the thirteen main subjects, the school also offers metal work, weaving, gold-grinding, and the making of religious drums in the curriculum and these courses last up to two years.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
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