Visitors to Tibet are invariably impressed by the local people's power of imagination and boldness of their artistic expression, from architecture to clothing and decorations, from furniture to articles of daily use. Religious doctrines have not stifled their creativity. Rather, they have given wings to their imagination.
Tangka
For both lamas and votaries, Tangka is an important tool for self-cultivation. By worshipping Tangka, they may be blessed with good deeds and rewards.
Tangka, seen in every monastery and family shrine in Tibet, has been in vogue in Tibet for centuries. It is the art of Tibetan scroll-banner painting and mainly depicts the images of Buddha, eminent monks and folk customs.
Tangka painters have to follow a strict painting model, which has been passed down through generations. The original is said to be hidden among the secret sutras, recording all the rules and scales of at least eight different types of Tangka painting. No one is allowed to change them.
The pigments contribute greatly to the uniqueness of Tangka. They are made from natural materials such as rare metals and plants, and carefully mixed and processed by hand. Thus a well-kept Tangka still shines gorgeously generation after generation.
Tangkas used at home are usually not longer than 1 meter, but the giant Tangka in the Buddhist Portrait Unfolding Ritual can be big enough to cover the side of a mountain.
It is, indeed, a magnificent spectacle. The Buddhists take out the Tangka treasured by the temple and exhibit it in public to show the Pure Land of Buddhism. They deliver speeches, and sing and dance to commemorate the mighty Buddha.
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