Abish Shakya is a dedicated steward of a family legacy that has shaped the art of Thangka painting and Buddha statue crafting for over five decades. Born into the vibrant artistic tradition of Patan, Nepal, Abish grew up immersed in the intricate world of his father, Astaman Shakya, who founded their family business of Thangka and buddha statue along with other ritual items which has now turned into over 50 years of expertise. Originally based in Patan, the Shakya family relocated to Boudha, Kathmandu, as it emerged as a bustling hub for Buddhist art, particularly Thangkas and Buddha statues. This strategic move, made 32 years ago, transformed their modest venture—started with just 4,000 NPR in cash and 6,000 NPR in debt—into a thriving large-scale industry, now a cornerstone of Nepal’s cultural export market.
Abish’s passion for his family’s craft was ignited early, surrounded by the rhythmic chiseling of statues and the delicate brushstrokes of Thangka paintings. Choosing to carry forward this legacy rather than pursue a new path, he embraced the challenge of preserving and expanding their tradition. Under his leadership, the business has grown from a small workshop to a robust enterprise, operating its own manufacturing plant while collaborating with local craftsmen skilled in traditional Tibetan techniques.
Specializing in custom orders, Abish ensures each piece adheres to the strict iconographic guidelines of Tibetan Buddhism, creating Thangkas and statues that serve as spiritual tools for meditation and devotion, featuring deities, mandalas, and sacred symbols crafted with natural pigments and 24K gold.
The Shakya family’s artistry has found a global audience, with exports reaching China, Europe, America, and beyond. Chinese buyers, drawn to the cultural resonance of Tibetan Buddhist art, are the top foreign clients, while pre-pandemic demand from Europe and America was equally strong. Abish has focused on cultivating relationships with returning customers, ensuring repeat business through quality and authenticity. His Thangkas and statues, often consecrated for ritual use, adorn Gumbas and private altars worldwide, reflecting the spiritual depth and technical finesse of Nepali craftsmanship.
Despite their success, Abish acknowledges the growing challenges in the market. The rise of mass-produced replicas, often from India, has intensified competition, as cheaper alternatives flood the market, a concern echoed in broader analyses of Nepal’s Thangka industry. These low-cost imitations, made with reusable molds, undermine the value of handcrafted originals, making it harder for traditional artisans to sustain their craft. Additionally, the reliance on tourism, with tour guides taking high commissions (up to 50%), has squeezed artisans’ profits, forcing businesses like Abish’s to innovate to stay competitive.
Abish counters these challenges by emphasizing authenticity and quality, collaborating with skilled local craftsmen, and leveraging digital platforms like LunziArt to reach global markets. His commitment to customization allows clients to request specific designs, from intricate mandalas to bespoke Buddha statues, all rooted in Tibetan religious traditions. By maintaining high standards and fostering direct connections with buyers, Abish ensures his family’s legacy endures. Visit LunziArt.com to explore Abish Shakya’s exquisite Thangkas and statues, each a testament to Nepal’s sacred artistry and his unwavering dedication to preserving it. 
