Om Shrestha’s journey as a Thangka artist is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in 1973 in the quiet hills of Ramechhap, he was not destined for this sacred art by birthright—unlike the Lamas and Tamang artists who inherit it through generations. Yet, fate intervened when he took a job as a cook in a Thangka painter’s household. Amidst the rhythms of kitchen work, Om found himself irresistibly drawn to the vibrant colors and intricate geometries of Thangka art. In stolen moments, he would study the paintings, tracing their lines in his mind, teaching himself the basics of a craft that would become his life’s calling. His path was unconventional, but his determination was absolute. 
Leaving Ramechhap for Kathmandu, Om sought out masters who could refine his raw talent. Each mentor added new dimensions to his skill—proportion, symbolism, the delicate dance of brush and pigment. But the pinnacle of Thangka artistry, the application of 24k gold leaf, remained elusive, reserved for those who could afford its steep apprenticeship. Undeterred, Om and his wife made an unthinkable sacrifice: she offered 1.5 tolas of her own gold jewelry as collateral to secure his training. This act of faith became the turning point in his career, allowing him to master the gilded techniques that now define his work. 
For Om, artistry without sharing is incomplete. Over the years, he has trained more than 500 students, breaking the traditional mold of guarded knowledge. Ever the innovator, he introduced a revolutionary teaching model: paying apprentices NPR 1,500 for their first completed Thangkas, which he then sold to fund further training. This system not only nurtured new talent but also wove a self-sustaining ecosystem around his craft. His influence extends beyond the studio—as a CTEVT-certified Thangka painting trainer, he collaborates with the Nepalese government to preserve this heritage, leading 8–9 community projects in Ramechhap to ensure the art thrives in his homeland. 
Today, Om’s legacy is carried forward by his son, Suman Shrestha, a 25-year-old artist pursuing his bachelor’s degree while apprenticing under his father. Their partnership embodies a delicate balance—honoring ancient techniques while embracing modern opportunities. Three years ago, Om took a bold step by opening his own studio in Bhaktapur, shifting from reliance on resellers to direct engagement with collectors. Together, they envision a future where Thangka art transcends borders, leveraging platforms like Wheel Technology to share their work globally. For Om, the mandala remains the heart of his practice—a symbol of unity, patience, and the infinite cycles of creation. 
Om Shrestha’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. From a cook’s humble quarters to a master’s atelier, his life mirrors the very Thangkas he paints—layered, luminous, and rich with meaning. He is not merely an artist but a custodian of culture, a bridge between tradition and modernity. Through his hands, the sacred art of the Himalayas finds new life, and through his teachings, its flame is passed onward. In Om’s own words: "A Thangka is not just pigment and cloth. It is a prayer made visible."
Leaving Ramechhap for Kathmandu, Om sought out masters who could refine his raw talent. Each mentor added new dimensions to his skill—proportion, symbolism, the delicate dance of brush and pigment. But the pinnacle of Thangka artistry, the application of 24k gold leaf, remained elusive, reserved for those who could afford its steep apprenticeship. Undeterred, Om and his wife made an unthinkable sacrifice: she offered 1.5 tolas of her own gold jewelry as collateral to secure his training. This act of faith became the turning point in his career, allowing him to master the gilded techniques that now define his work. For Om, artistry without sharing is incomplete. Over the years, he has trained more than 500 students, breaking the traditional mold of guarded knowledge. Ever the innovator, he introduced a revolutionary teaching model: paying apprentices NPR 1,500 for their first completed Thangkas, which he then sold to fund further training. This system not only nurtured new talent but also wove a self-sustaining ecosystem around his craft. His influence extends beyond the studio—as a CTEVT-certified Thangka painting trainer, he collaborates with the Nepalese government to preserve this heritage, leading 8–9 community projects in Ramechhap to ensure the art thrives in his homeland. Today, Om’s legacy is carried forward by his son, Suman Shrestha, a 25-year-old artist pursuing his bachelor’s degree while apprenticing under his father. Their partnership embodies a delicate balance—honoring ancient techniques while embracing modern opportunities. Three years ago, Om took a bold step by opening his own studio in Bhaktapur, shifting from reliance on resellers to direct engagement with collectors. Together, they envision a future where Thangka art transcends borders, leveraging platforms like Wheel Technology to share their work globally. For Om, the mandala remains the heart of his practice—a symbol of unity, patience, and the infinite cycles of creation. Om Shrestha’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. From a cook’s humble quarters to a master’s atelier, his life mirrors the very Thangkas he paints—layered, luminous, and rich with meaning. He is not merely an artist but a custodian of culture, a bridge between tradition and modernity. Through his hands, the sacred art of the Himalayas finds new life, and through his teachings, its flame is passed onward. In Om’s own words: "A Thangka is not just pigment and cloth. It is a prayer made visible."
