Thangka art exhibition inaugurated in Malta

The China Cultural Centre in Malta inaugurated a Thangka Art Exhibition including antique and modern Thangka artworks on Monday evening.

Wang Rui, Thangka collector and founder of Thangka Painting School in Qinghai Province, gave a lecture wherein he discussed the origin, the technique and the value of this ancient Tibetan art.

He also explained how he succeeded to discover and preserve a number of prestigious antique Thangka artworks which had been left in some abandoned temples and caves.

"My knowledge of Thangka art was limited before attending this lecture and viewing this exhibition," said Catherine Tabone, director of culture, at the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government of Malta.

"I think this is a really enlightening experience for all of us, not only in terms of knowledge but also in terms of beauty and in terms of how art, religion and philosophy are really one process that culminates in the production of such expressive masterpieces," she added.

Toni Sant, artistic director at Malta's St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity, commented after visiting the exhibition: "During my travels, I have been introduced to Buddhism and in the process, I learnt also about the fascinating and contemplative art of Thangka. I believe that it is a privilege for Maltese people to have the opportunity to appreciate such unique craftsmanship." Endit