Brand Bhutan: Karma Yangchen

Email

Karma Yangchen, a distinguished artisan from Bhutan exemplifies a profound commitment to the art of handwoven textiles.

Brand Bhutan: Karma Yangchen
One of the few veteran hand woven textile producers from Bhutan, her journey began at the age of sixteen ignited by a fervent passion for Bhutanese textiles eventually transforming her into a skilled textile designer. At twenty she founded her own textile business, evolving into a pioneer of natural dyes with over 25 years of expertise.

Achievements of Karma Yangchen

As a revered resource person for the Handicraft Association of Bhutan (HAB) and the Agency for Promotion of Indigenous Craft (APIC) Karma has generously shared her knowledge, training over 2000 weavers nationwide in the intricate art of natural dyeing. Notably she and her team had the grand honor of crafting the Royal attire ‘Namza’ (Gho) for King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during His Majesty's 2008 coronation, facilitated by the Royal Textile Academy.
King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during His Majesty's 2008 coronation

Mission of Karma Yangchen

Recognized with the Bhutan Seal of Excellence in 2010, Karma remains devoted to preserving traditional Bhutanese weaving techniques and employing the finest materials. Her design inspirations stem from the surrounding nature, a motif reflected in her zero-waste weaving studio. Implementing a meticulous approach to measurements and quality control, she ensures zero yarn wastage, repurposing dye waste into organic fertilizer for her kitchen garden.

Karma Yangchen champions sustainability, emphasizing the global shift towards natural fibers and dyes amid climate concerns. Through her eco-conscious practices she strives to convey the significance of harmonizing with nature.

In the realm of natural dyeing, Karma stands as an exemplar, melding ancestral traditions with sustainable production. Situated in Punakha valley, she employs pure homegrown natural dyes, including madder and creeper, employing traditional methods handspun by skilled artisans (local community women weavers) and woven on a loom, one of Bhutan's oldest looms, often crafted from bamboo.

Dedication and Inspiration

Karma's creative repertoire extends to innovative textile products, such as the tapestry GNH Wall Hanger, woven from recycled materials and symbolizing Gross National Happiness of Bhutan. Awarded for it's Seal of Quality in 2008, this creation epitomizes her dedication to weaving stories of happiness, nature and tradition.

symbolizing Gross National Happiness of Bhutan

Her butterfly-inspired natural dye throw, a fusion of raw silk on wool, not only captivates with its beauty but also conveys a deeper message about the importance of butterflies in the ecosystem. Recognized with the Seal of Excellence from Brand Bhutan, this creation attests to Karma's ability to merge artistry with ecological mindfulness.

Her textile scarfs, too, have earned the esteemed Seal of Excellence, a testament to the enduring quality woven into every piece by this masterful artisan.

From metho (flower) cushion covers to scarfs and shawls, all bearing her creative touch, Karma's designs eloquently speak of her commitment to nature-inspired, local, and eco-friendly weaving. Her artistry, innovative designs, and wealth of experience shine through in each textile product, encapsulating the ancient art form of weaving, enriched with stories and wisdom.

Her textile scarfs, too, have earned the esteemed Seal of Excellence, a testament to the enduring quality woven into every piece by this masterful artisan.

Safeguarding A Precious Bhutanese Traditional Art

With unwavering humility Karma Yangchen holds a profound aspiration to safeguard the natural traditional art of weaving and the sacred processes of natural dyeing. Her heart's desire is to be a custodian of these age-old traditions, ensuring their passage through the hands of generations yet to come. In her noble pursuit, she seeks not only to preserve the ancient art form of weaving and the venerable tradition of natural dyeing but also to be a beacon for a culture steeped in healing and well-being.

Safeguarding A Precious Bhutanese Traditional Art

Karma's vision extends beyond the loom, weaving threads of tradition that are in harmony with Mother Earth. Her commitment to employing only natural, eco-friendly resources reflects a deep reverence for the environment and a dedication to fostering a culture that resonates with the gentle rhythms of nature. With humility and a sense of responsibility, she endeavors to leave a legacy that not only embraces the richness of Bhutanese heritage but also contributes to the well-being of the earth and its people.

For any enquiries kindly email [email protected]
Or visit follow Karma Yangchen on instagram @karma.yangchen.textiles 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @karma.yangchen.textiles

 

Contact no. +975-17609998
Thimphu & Punakha Bhutan
This feature is a part of the Brand Bhutan series to promote Bhutanese entrepreneurs. 


Related Posts

Brand Bhutan: Bhutan Herbal Tea

Bhutan Herbal Tea is the brainchild of two Bhutanese individuals who first crossed paths in New York during a Bhutanese...

Nov 25, 2023 13:56

Brand Bhutan: Deki Natural Dyes

Deki Natural Dyes is a family business that was formally established in 2011, and it holds a rich legacy spanning three...

Nov 15, 2023 12:06

Brand Bhutan: Where Quality Meets Tradition in Every Product

The Ministry of Economic Affairs in Bhutan, which used to be called the Ministry of Trade & Industry, was established in...

Nov 06, 2023 11:44

Sturgeon and Trout: Bhutan's Emerging Aquaculture Industry

Fish farming in Bhutan has been on the rise, but the country still relies heavily on fish imports to meet the growing...

Oct 17, 2023 13:53

Bhutan's Growing Tourism Welcomes Luxury Hotel Additions in 2023

As Bhutan's tourism sector continues to grow, it's not surprising that new entrants are keen to enter the luxury...

Oct 01, 2023 13:42

Thimphu's Centenary Farmers Market Back in Business After...

The newly renovated market was inaugurated on 18 September 2023.

Sep 22, 2023 08:03

Latest

News

Royal Inauguration of Changyul Park

On August 23, 2024, Changyul Park in Changzamtok, Thimphu, was officially inaugurated in a grand ceremony graced by His Majesty the King,...

Nov 12, 2024 11:02

Drukair Expands International Network with New Dubai-Paro Route

Drukair officially launched its new twice-weekly flights to Dubai on the 28th October 2024, marking a significant step in expanding the...

Nov 04, 2024 14:46

Features

Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck Receives Inaugural Smile Asia Philanthropic Visionary Award

Over 230 children in Bhutan have received free surgeries for facial deformities through a partnership between Smile Asia, a Singapore-based...

Aug 19, 2024 14:15

Rifles and Rituals: Satire and Societal Shifts in Bhutan as Portrayed in 'The Monk and The Gun

Pawo Choyning Dorji, whose film "The Monk and the Gun" offers insight into the Himalayan nation's modernization process.

Feb 20, 2024 11:04

Business

Brand Bhutan: Karma Yangchen

Karma Yangchen, a distinguished artisan from Bhutan exemplifies a profound commitment to the art of handwoven textiles.

Dec 14, 2023 10:22

Brand Bhutan: Bhutan Herbal Tea

Bhutan Herbal Tea is the brainchild of two Bhutanese individuals who first crossed paths in New York during a Bhutanese New Year gathering...

Nov 25, 2023 13:56

Sports

Bhutan Cricket's New Milestone: The Inaugural Indoor Cricket Academy

The Bhutan Cricket Council Board (BCCB) inaugurated its inaugural indoor cricket academy on 20th December, with the objective of ensuring...

Dec 21, 2023 14:57

Paro FC Clinches Third Consecutive Victory in BOB Bhutan Premier League

Paro FC has once again claimed the BOB Bhutan Premier League championship, marking their third consecutive title victory during the season's...

Dec 12, 2023 10:26

Travel

New Immigration Post Opens in Samdrupjongkhar

International tourists can now enter and exit through the eastern border town of Samdrupjongkhar, following the official inauguration of the...

Nov 08, 2024 15:10

Changi Airports International and BIG Team Up for Bhutan’s Next Regional Hub

Changi Airports International (CAI) of Singapore has been chosen to collaborate with the renowned architectural firm Bjarke Ingels Group...

Oct 08, 2024 10:49

Lifestyle

Chunipa Losar: Bhutan's Timeless Celebration of Traditions and Offerings

Chunipa Losar is a day of offerings, a moment when communities come together to express gratitude, seek blessings, and strengthen bonds.

Jan 12, 2024 12:31

Bhutan's Time-Honored Tradition: Exploring the Nyilo Season and the Lolay Ritual

Approximately 750 children recently took part in the traditional practice known as "lolay" in Bhutan, marking the beginning of the Nyilo...

Jan 04, 2024 14:18

Subscribe to our newsletter

Never miss out on new happenings and news stories!

newsletter

Download Daily Bhutan Mobile App

Connecting with us just got easier!

android app
apple app