Under the esteemed patronage of Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, nearly ninety artisans gathered at the Royal Textile Academy this week to vie for top honors in the nation’s premier cultural showcase. Now in its 23rd year, the National Design and Art Competition provides a vibrant stage for creators working in weaving, embroidery, painting, sculpture, and wood carving, all in an effort to preserve and celebrate Bhutan’s rich artistic heritage.
The competition opened last week with submissions spanning six distinct categories: Gho weaving, Kira weaving, intricate embroidery, traditional painting, sculpture, and wood carving. A panel of seven specialists per category devoted several days to evaluating each piece, assessing technical mastery, cultural authenticity, and creative innovation. Their deliberations concluded today with the announcement of the winners before a distinguished gathering presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck.
In the Kira weaving division, Ugyen Wangmo emerged victorious, earning the top cash award of Nu 120,000. “I’m very grateful to the Royal Textile Academy for creating such opportunities for weavers like us,” she said. “I look forward to participating again in the future and doing even better.” Meanwhile, Dorji Khandu captured first place in the sculpture category, underscoring the role of art competitions in cultural preservation. “By participating in competitions like this, we help preserve our culture and traditions,” he noted. “It also allows us to proudly showcase our unique culture to tourists.”
Beyond individual triumphs, the event underscores a broader mission to safeguard Bhutan’s intangible cultural legacy. “This competition provides a platform for artisans to showcase their talents,” explained Kinley Wangmo, Assistant Conservator of the Royal Textile Academy. “We will hold this exhibition for two to three weeks, where the artisans can also sell their products.” Indeed, the public exhibition—running through May 10—invites visitors to not only admire but also purchase works that reflect centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.
Cash prizes of Nu 65,000 and Nu 32,500 were awarded to the second and third place finishers in each category, respectively, while winners also received a special Certificate of Master Artisan presented by Princess Eeuphelma. As Bhutan’s artists continue to blend time-honored traditions with contemporary vision, the National Design and Art Competition stands as both a tribute to the past and a beacon for future generations of creative practitioners.
