Sukbir Bishwa’s journey into the world of art began when he was just a child. Growing up in a creative environment, Sukbir was captivated by his uncle’s artistic talent. His uncle, who designed small artworks, unknowingly planted the seed for Sukbir’s passion for drawing. Fascinated by what he saw, Sukbir would mimic his uncle’s designs, giving birth to his artistic exploration.
By the time Sukbir reached grade two or three, he was already sketching his own creations, sharing them with friends, and receiving encouraging feedback. “That early appreciation from my friends made me want to paint even more,” Sukbir reflects. It wasn’t just a passing hobby; it was the beginning of a lifelong relationship with art.
The First Steps Towards a Larger Canvas
As he entered junior high school, Sukbir’s curiosity about different art forms expanded. “We had brushes, sketch pens, and colors in school, and that’s how I started discovering my true self,” Sukbir recalls. He began to push the boundaries of his creativity, entering local and international competitions. One of his early milestones was winning a certificate of merit in an art competition from India.
These early accolades fueled Sukbir’s desire to continue painting, and soon he found himself regularly competing and often placing first. “Those little victories kept me inspired,” he says. “They became a driving force behind my work.”
But for Sukbir, the satisfaction of creating art wasn’t enough. He wanted his work to be seen by others, and more importantly, he wanted to make a living out of his passion. Simply storing his paintings at home no longer sufficed.
The Birth of Art Yanttra
In 2012, Sukbir made a bold decision. He opened **Art Yanttra**, a gallery where he could showcase his work. What started as a small outlet soon became a space for art lovers to gather, admire, and purchase paintings. “Before I had the gallery, I’d invite friends and family to my home to see my paintings. Some even wanted to buy them,” Sukbir shares. Realizing there was demand, he knew he needed a more professional platform to share his art with a wider audience.
In addition to opening his gallery, Sukbir also partnered with a local handicraft shop in Thimphu, which sold his paintings on consignment. This collaboration helped him reach a larger audience and gave him the confidence to continue pursuing his craft full-time.
A Diverse Collection
Art Yanttra offers a wide variety of paintings, ranging from modern landscapes and spiritual themes to traditional Bhutanese art. Traditional paintings hold a special place in Sukbir’s heart, as they are deeply connected to Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual heritage. His gallery features Thangka paintings and works from Zorig Chusum artists, created in a variety of mediums such as watercolors, acrylics, and oils.
“Traditional art, in particular, has a spiritual value that guides me,” Sukbir explains. While he enjoys the freedom of modern expression, his appreciation for traditional works keeps him grounded in Bhutanese culture.
Overcoming Challenges with Positivity
Like many artists, Sukbir has faced his share of obstacles. “The market for art is small, and sourcing raw materials is difficult,” he admits. However, Sukbir’s unwavering optimism and love for his craft have helped him persevere. He embraces challenges with a smile, finding joy in every new piece he creates.
Art Yanttra has also become more than just a gallery—it’s a place where visitors can meet Sukbir, learn about his art, and experience the creative process firsthand. “People want to connect with the artist and understand the story behind each painting,” he says. He ensures that the gallery is a welcoming space for anyone curious about his work.
The Road Ahead
As Sukbir continues to grow as an artist, he remains driven by the belief that his best work is yet to come. “Every day, I learn something new, and I haven’t yet created my masterpiece. That keeps me striving for more,” he says.
Sukbir Bishwa’s journey from a curious child sketching his uncle’s designs to the founder of Art Yanttra is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and continuous learning. Through his art, Sukbir hopes to inspire others and leave an indelible mark on Bhutan’s artistic landscape.
At Art Yanttra, each painting tells a story, and with each stroke, Sukbir brings those stories to life for all to see and appreciate.
Content Writer: Rinzin Dema
