Sonam Tsering

Sonam Tsering (b. 1986, Nyemo County, Lhasa, Tibet) is a first-class Thangka painter of the Tibet Autonomous Region and an honorary Arts and Crafts Master of Lhasa City. As one of the inaugural recipients of the Lhasa Municipal Arts and Crafts Master title, he represents the new generation of Tibetan Thangka masters who bridge tradition and innovation.

From a young age, Sonam Tsering immersed himself in Buddhist iconography and the practice of proportion guidelines (Pratimā-lakṣaṇa). Through nearly two decades of dedication, he has developed a reputation for precise measurements, refined pigments, and works that seamlessly combine sacred tradition with contemporary aesthetics. He is particularly skilled in both large-scale Thangkas and miniature Zhaka (small-format Thangkas).

【Current Positions】

• First-Class Thangka Painter, Tibet Autonomous Region

• Arts and Crafts Master of Lhasa City (1st cohort)

• Member, Tibet Arts and Crafts Association

• Member, Tibet Artists Association

【Selected Achievements】

• 2017: Received the Gongqiao Prize at the 2nd Tibet Autonomous Region Arts and Crafts Master Evaluation.

• 2021: Awarded the honorary title of Lhasa Arts and Crafts Master (first session).

• 2024: Participated in the “Baihe Cup” Arts and Crafts Innovation Competition, with his work Miniature Thangkas (Zhaka) selected for exhibition.

• Participated in multiple Tibet Fine Thangka Exhibitions and China Thangka Art Festivals, winning several excellence awards.

• Representative works include Manjushri and Eight Deities Miniature Thangka Series.

Sonam Tsering’s art not only reflects the essence of Tibetan cultural heritage but also contributes to the continuity and innovation of Thangka art in the modern era.