Bhutan's vibrant arts and crafts are a beautiful reflection of its unique cultural identity. The "Zorig Chosum," or thirteen traditional arts and crafts, are still actively practiced and taught at institutes in Thimphu and Trashi Yangtse. Government support ensures these traditions thrive despite limited tourism.
Woven fabrics are deeply ingrained in Bhutanese life, used in ceremonies, gifts, and everyday items. Known for their intricate, nature-inspired patterns, textiles vary regionally. Bumthang's "yathra" wool and Lhuentse's silk "kishuthara" are prime examples. Mostly women in remote areas create these stunning textiles, preserving this valuable art form amidst modernization. Bhutanese textiles are now sought-after collectibles.
Predominantly religious, Bhutanese painting, or "lhazo," often features traditional "thangkhas" – scroll paintings of Buddhist figures using mineral paints. These stylized paintings, adhering to strict geometric principles, also decorate homes and buildings. The artistic process is valued over individual recognition, with most works remaining anonymous.
Bhutanese sculptors are renowned throughout the Himalayas, crafting clay statues of Buddhist figures for monasteries. "Jinzob," the traditional clay sculpting, is taught at the Zorig Chosum institute. Impressive statues, some reaching three stories high, grace many monasteries.
"Deysho," traditional handmade paper from the daphne plant's bark, is used for religious texts, books, and gift wrapping. This durable, insect-resistant paper is still made by families, supplementing their income. Some factories now produce decorative paper with added flower petals and other materials, including vegetable-dyed paper.
Wood carving is an ancient and vital craft. Prayer flags, ubiquitous in Bhutan, are printed from carved wooden blocks. "Parzo," as carving is known, extends to slate and stone, but wood is most common. Used for printing traditional books and adorning buildings with intricate carvings, the wood is seasoned for over a year before use.
Sword making falls under "garzo," or blacksmithing, which encompasses all metalwork. Ceremonial swords, crafted for honored officials, are worn on special occasions. Almost all Bhutanese men carry a "dudzom" knife. The renowned Terton Pema Lingpa was a celebrated sword maker.
Traditional cloth boots, embroidered and appliquéd with Bhutanese motifs, are worn during ceremonies. Boot colors denote rank: orange for ministers, red for senior officials, and white for the laity. This craft has seen a revival, now taught at the Zorig Chosum institute. Shorter boots are also made for women. These boots are essential for formal events.
"Thazo," the art of working with cane and bamboo, thrives in regions like Zhemgang and Trongsa. Crafts include the distinctive "belo" hat and the "bangchung" basket. Baskets of various sizes and containers for "arra" (local brew) are also made.
With archery as the national sport, bow and arrow making is experiencing renewed interest, especially before the national archery competition. Craftsmen seek specific bamboo and reeds, expertly shaping them into bows and arrows.
Traditional Bhutanese jewelry, often silver and gold with intricate designs, includes bracelets, "komas" (dress fasteners), earrings with turquoise, and necklaces featuring turquoise, coral, and the prized "zhi" stone. The "zhi," believed to have protective powers, is a black and white spiral-patterned agate. Local festivals showcase the best of Bhutanese jewelry, particularly coral necklaces.