Chenresig

The embodiment of utmost compassion towards all beings. 

Also known as Avalokitesvara, "One who looks with unwavering eye," Chenresig is the most revered of all Bodhisattvas in the Buddhist religion, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.  He listens to the prayers of all sentient beings in times of suffering.  In one of his stories, Chenrezig vows never to rest until he has freed all sentient beings from samsara, but despite his best efforts, his task is overwhelming. His arms therefore shatter into 1000 pieces, and his face 11 pieces to see and reach more beings in need.  

His two front hands are in a devotional gesture, clasped in front of his heart.  His upper right hand holds a crystal rosary, a symbol of the never-ending cycle. His left hand holds a white lotus, a symbol of the pure state of enlightenment (lotus bloomed from muddy waters does not stick to mud).

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The unique arrangements of Thangkas’s compositions and proportions are believed to bestow blessings on those who look upon them. Similarly across the world, as well as within Tibet’s buddhist culture, the concentric structure of mandalas are used to invoke harmony and balance to the body and mind. 

Thangka paintings depict religious stories, incorporate symbolisms, and are visual representations of Buddhist practice. One must not think Thangka means a particular type of painting within Tibetan culture. Thangka simply means ‘thing that one unrolls’. Tibet as a culture/ country throughout history has been Buddhist. Every facet of life surrounds buddhism, hence naturally its paintings also revolve around the same topic. 

With the physical body Buddhists perform dances & prostrations to praise and celebrate the wonderful teachings of the Buddhas, with the voice they chant mantras that soothe anxieties with their unique vibrations, and with the mind they imagine the most beautiful and elaborate worlds that inspire joy.