Located just north of the capital of Bhutan, in the beautiful mountain valley of Kabesa, Choki Traditional Art School is the only private institute that provides free education to underprivileged youths who have a keen interest in learning the traditional arts and crafts.
The school focuses on developing solid background and skills of the students so that they can go on to become independent and contribute to preserving Bhutan’s unique art and culture.
“I have been in traditional painting my whole life and now, nearing the end of my life, my humble contribution will be to pass the skills to the younger generation. We must preserve our values and customs, our culture and tradition. This is one of our identities, if it disappears, it is gone forever.”
Choki Traditional Art School (CTAS) founded by Thrimdep Choki Dorji in 1999.
After his retirement from Civil Service, the late Dasho Choki Dorji was approached by children who were interested to learn arts but could not get admission in the National Painting School due to qualification requirement. His interest and love for the profession and zeal to keep alive the zorig chusum (13 Arts and Crafts) inspired him to teach these children at his house. These students came from humble families far away, so he kept them in his house and provided free food and lodge. Soon enough the news spread and many parents started bringing their children. Thus the idea to establish a small school and provide learning opportunities for the economically and disadvantaged children was conceived.
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A glimpse into Choki Traditional Art School, its founding, the courses it offers, and the challenges it faces in its mission to keep Bhutanese traditions alive.
Choki Artisans is a creative initiative by Choki Traditional Art School to enhance authentic experiences, build new skills, and promote sustainability—ensuring free education in traditional arts continues for underprivileged youth in Bhutan.
A part of the Druk Beyonder “Project CTAS” vlog series.
An in-depth insider view of the school and the students.
Celebration of the International Snow Leopard Day: Oct 23
Choki Traditional Art School in collaboration with WWF Bhutan.
Dechen Tshomo, Sangay Tenzin, and Nim Dorji secured 1st place in embroidery and Lhadri painting at the 23rd Annual National Design and Art Competition, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication.
The celebration of International Snow Leopard Day at Choki Traditional Art School, now an annual event since the school’s 25th …
On May 2nd, the Birth Anniversary of His late Majesty the Third King, Bhutan celebrated Teachers’ Day, a poignant tribute to the vital role of educators in shaping society.
The annual School Rimdro (Ritual) took place on April 18, and along with the recitation of the 108 volumes of Kanjur was conducted.
The National Design and Art Competition (NDAC) is an annual event hosted by the Museum Division under the Department of …
In a special event commemorating its 25th Anniversary, the school had the privilege to partner with WWF-Bhutan to celebrate today's International Snow Leopard Day.
Y-PEER CTAS organized a seminar on May 28, 2023, to commemorate International Menstrual Hygiene Day, emphasizing its significance. Numerous presentations …
To raise funds for CTAS, while showcasing to the world the beauty and culture of Bhutan via social media, one …
The school celebrated its 25 years of establishment on 29th March 2023. It was a great milestone and a proud …
Coinciding with the joyous occasion of the 25th-anniversary celebration of CTAS on 29th March 2023, the school formally announced the …
“The school has provided me the opportunity to develop myself and now, not only am I able to support my family but I can also give back to the school by supporting the school as the chairman of the Alumni Association.”
“I am grateful to the school and all the well-wishers and supporters who have created such an opportunity and paving a bright future for youths like us. I wouldn’t be where I am without it and I am thankful and happy to be where I am now.”
– Thinley Dorji
Chairman of CTAS-AA
The Choki Traditional Art School Alumni Association (CTAS-AA) was established in September 2014 with the objective of fostering connections between ex-students and the present students. This bond could benefit the present students and the school in the form of expertise, financial resources and sharing of best practices towards sustainable development of the school.
Since its establishment, the CTAS-AA has continued to grow in terms of membership and its contribution to school. CTAS alumni work across the country, preserving and promoting the arts and crafts.
For all our well wishers and supporters, who would like to visit Bhutan and CTAS, we would like to highly recommend using the service of Boonserm Tours & Travels. They will handle everything including visa application, Drukair ticket, custom itinerary personalized to your needs and all other logistic arrangements for the guests. Boonserm Tours & Travels is a supporter of Choki Traditional Art School.
For more information about visiting Bhutan, please mail to : [email protected]
Monday to Friday: 9am – 4pm
Saturday: 9am – 12pm
LUNCH BREAK : 12:15pm – 1: 15pm
Academic Year: March – December
Summer Break: 2 weeks in July
Advanced Notice: Kindly inform us a few days before your visit for a more personalized experience.
Entrance fee: Nu. 1000 per person
Tashi Namgay: [email protected] (17627369)
Sonam Dema: (17595638)
© Choki Traditional Art School. All rights reserved 2021
