Lhakhang - Contemporary Bhutanese Painting

Dechenphug Lhakhang is a fortified monastery located on the western slope of the Thimphu valley. Unlike other similar monuments, the structure is painted entirely orange, with the usual red-colored khemar band near the top painted gray instead.  The monastery is at a location that had been associated since ancient times with Geynyen, a warrior deity.

Pema Gyeltshen was born in 1983 in Trashigang, Bhutan. His artistic journey began in his youth when he frequently doodled in school notebooks instead of focusing on lessons. In 1998, he joined the Voluntary Artists Studio Thimphu (VAST Bhutan), laying the foundation for his career as an artist.

After high school, he faced a challenging period of substance abuse and aimless wandering but had a transformative realization. He made a resolute U-turn, gained practical work experience, and honed his character.

In 2012, Pema committed fully to art, overcoming numerous challenges. He now concentrates on creating art, participating in exhibitions, and sharing his work globally, successfully selling his artworks both within and beyond Bhutan. CLICK for more information on him and contemporary art in Bhutan.