Thimphu: Bhutan artists turn to Voluntary Artist Studio

The Voluntary Artist Studio of Thimphu, popularly known as VAST, is one place where Bhutan’s budding artists with a passion for art, can turn to, The Bhutan Live reported.
The main objective of VAST since its inception in 1998, has been to create a platform where young Bhutanese artists get an opportunity to hone their skills and showcase their talents. Located at Chubachu, VAST thrives on the ingenuity of budding local artists. VAST is organising an art competition in collaboration with White Canvas Thailand, Eastern Culture Foundation Japan, and Bhutan Acorn Tours and Travel.
The competition is exhibiting the work of local artists at the studio. Close to 60 artists are participating in the White Canvas Bhutan Art competition.
The youngest artist is just five.
According to The Bhutan Live, when one enters the VAST studio, a lingering smell of paint is what you will be met with first. After a few steps in, you will see beautiful artwork by the participants.
“I try to paint whenever I can get time,” said Kinzang Chophel, 31, who contributed an art piece to the competition.
His artwork depicts traditional Bhutanese houses in ruins, with trees growing out of them. To him, this represents the current state of the country with young and capable Bhutanese leaving for abroad.