Study With Us
Structured courses and short workshops taught by master artists with decades of practice. Study in Dharamsala with techniques passed down through unbroken lineages.
Current Intake
All classes run in small groups — maximum 8–12 students — to ensure personalised attention from the teacher. Enrolment opens quarterly.
with Tenzin Norbu
A comprehensive introduction to the sacred art of Tibetan scroll painting. Students learn to prepare a traditional cotton canvas, sketch the basic proportions of a Buddhist figure using the iconometric grid, mix and apply mineral pigments, and outline completed sections in black ink. No prior art experience required — only patience and dedication.
with Tenzin Norbu
An intensive study of the Karma Gadri tradition as transmitted from Lhasa monastery lineages. Covers complex multi-deity compositions, full gold work, brocade border design, and the consecration ritual. Prerequisites: completion of Introduction course or portfolio review. Class size limited to six students.
with Sonam Rinchen
Explore the ancient Tibetan-Newar tradition of cire perdue (lost-wax) bronze casting. Students model a clay prototype of a Buddhist figure, create a wax version, and work through the full casting and finishing process. Special focus on iconometric measurement according to the Pratimāmāna system. Materials included.
with Rigzin Choedon
Begin with the formal Uchen (block) script before moving to the flowing Umé (cursive) style. Students practice on handmade lokta paper using traditional bamboo-nib pens and hand-ground ink. The course culminates in each student producing a short prayer text suitable for framing or offering.
with Pema Dolkar
Learn back-strap and frame loom weaving in the Tibetan tradition, producing the geometric patterns found in traditional dress fabric, khata scarves, and decorative panels. Students work with naturally-dyed wool and silk, and leave with a completed woven piece of their own. Materials fee included.
with Pema Dolkar
Appliqué thangkas use cut silk and brocade fabric rather than paint to build up sacred images layer by layer. Students learn to select and combine fabrics, cut precise shapes, and compose a complete composition. The tradition is associated with great festivals and monastery ceremonies. Prerequisites: basic sewing skills.
with Tenzin Norbu
Gold is the lifeblood of classical Tibetan sacred art. This focused workshop covers shell gold preparation, solid gold application, stippling and burnishing, gold outlining (sertri), and the patterns used in different regional styles. Suitable for thangka painters seeking to add gold work to their practice.
with Dr. Karma Phuntsok
A scholarly survey of Tibetan art history from the Imperial period to the present exile community, covering major lineages, regional styles, iconographic systems, and the role of art in Tibetan Buddhism. Lecture and seminar format with illustrated slide presentations and field visits to Dharamsala's museums.
One-Time Events
Short intensive workshops are perfect for visitors to Dharamsala and students who want a focused experience without committing to a full course.
4 spots remaining
6 spots remaining
Full — join waitlist
All specialist materials (mineral pigments, lokta paper, bamboo pens, canvases, bronze clay) are sourced by Vermillion Arts. Course fees include materials unless otherwise stated.
McLeod Ganj has excellent guesthouses and long-stay hostels within walking distance of the school. We can suggest suitable options for students from out of town or abroad.
Contact us by email or phone to reserve your place. A 30% deposit holds your spot. Full fees are due one week before the course starts. Cancellations within 14 days are non-refundable.