Bhutan travel guide-Thimphu : Institute for Zorig Chusum

Institute for Zorig Chusum

The art and crafts currently taught in Bhutan, we introduced to the country in the 15th century. Trenton PemaLingpa also known as the Great Treasure Discoverer is credited to have introduced these art forms to the people of Bhutan. These traditional crafts are a representation of the centuries of knowledge and ability that was been handed down to master craftsmen and artisan through each generation. Bhutan’s unique artistic tradition has played a vital role in shaping the countries distinct culture and heritage.

It was realized that this unique and priceless heritage of the nation need to be protected and promoted with the strong patronage of the royal government. With this vision in mind the royal institute for ZoringChusum was established in the year 1971 to train the youth in the 13 traditional Arts and Crafts of Bhutan.

The institute now falls under the aegis of the National Technical Training Authority which was established in 1990 to ensure high quality vocational training for the people of the country. The institute has now been operational for almost 40 years and has taught students the arts of painting, embroidery, calligraphy, sculpting and wood carving. The royal government of Netherlands has given generous grants to the institution to help them improve their infrastructure and add other art forms to their curriculum.

The institute offer intensive study course that involves 4-6 years of training. The students live on campus at the institutes hostel where they receive their room and board costs are sponsored by the Royal government. The institute has now also started to offer 2 year short term intensive training programs in certain selected production techniques. .

During a visit to the institute, you can view the students learning and practicing the various arts such as fine arts, sculpture and water colors taught at this major center of learning.