Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, April 21: Marking a significant milestone for Tibetan cultural expression in exile, the Tibetan Arts Council (TAC) was officially launched on April 15, coinciding with World Art Day, a global celebration of artistic creativity.
The newly formed council aims to serve as an open and inclusive international network, connecting Tibetan and Tibetan-origin artists, collectives, and supporters worldwide. With over 200 artists already on board, TAC seeks to create a shared platform that nurtures creative development, promotes artistic work, and fosters collaboration and cultural exchange within the global Tibetan community.
The initiative builds upon The Tibet Fund’s Contemporary Arts Program, which has long supported artists and collectives across the Tibetan diaspora. The council’s establishment follows the momentum generated during the first Tibetan Artists Festival held in Dharamshala in November 2024. Co-organized and funded by The Tibet Fund, the festival brought together writers, musicians, painters, and performing artists from across the globe. Through workshops and focus group discussions held during the event, participants collectively endorsed creating a formal body to represent and support Tibetan artists internationally.
In response, TAC was conceptualized as a long-term initiative, initially incubated and supported by The Tibet Fund until it achieves operational sustainability. The council’s formation also included establishing its governing bodies, ensuring both strategic direction and broad-based representation.
At its core, TAC envisions a future where Tibetan art and culture continue to thrive as dynamic sources of inspiration and meaning—not only for Tibetans but for the wider global community. Its mission centers on empowering artists to pursue creative excellence while amplifying their voices and stories across diverse platforms.
“We hope this new council will be a catalyst for collaboration and community cohesion,” said Bob Ankerson, President of The Tibet Fund. He emphasised the historical significance of Tibetan artistic traditions, noting that Tibetan artists have, for centuries, produced masterpieces of profound beauty that have made a meaningful contribution to global cultural heritage. “This council will honour that legacy while opening new pathways for artists to thrive globally, rooted in their shared culture and community,” he added.
The council will be guided by a steering committee alongside an international advisory board comprising prominent Tibetan artists and supporters. It will also maintain a dedicated online presence and global mailing list to disseminate updates, opportunities, and resources related to funding, mentorship, networking, and collaboration.
Echoing the broader aspirations of the initiative, Bhuchung D Sonam, Chair of TAC’s steering committee, described the launch as a turning point for Tibetan arts. “This marks a new chapter for Tibetan arts, which are experiencing a vibrant resurgence around the world. I call upon all Tibetan and Tibetan-origin artists to join this council to ensure that creative expression, in all its forms, takes center stage in promoting dialogue and creating culture,” he stated.
