Create meaningful art in a meditative setting—and a joyful experience that lasts much longer than the course itself—in this weeklong retreat guided by Carmen Mensink, an internationally renowned painter of thangkas, traditional Tibetan scroll paintings of Buddhas and mandalas.
Choose either Green Tara or the Green Tara mandala as your subject, and learn how to draw it by using the ancient grid proportions of Carmen's lineage as a helpful tool. Her personal approach and guidance makes this retreat suitable for students of all levels.
Green Tara is the most famous female Buddha in the Tibetan tradition and the manifestation of active compassion. She extends her hand—like a mother reaching out to her child—to help all beings where needed. Tara is one of the most revered Buddhas, and there are many stories of people who were saved from dire circumstances while chanting her mantra or invoking Tara's name. She also is seen as one of the first emancipated women.
To work out your drawing, you learn different colored pencil techniques and you are also welcome to work with other materials such as watercolor, pastels, or paints. New students will first learn the basics by drawing a Buddha face before continuing with this week's subject.
In addition to the art sessions, you learn all about the background, symbolism, and mantra of Green Tara, and enjoy guided meditations.
Through her inspired approach, Carmen helps to bring out the best in each student. Return home with your own beautiful artwork.
