Celebrating Artistic Talent: Winners of the South Asia Art Competition Announced

BE OPEN Art Celebrates Artistic Excellence in South Asia

In a delightful announcement from BE OPEN Art—an online gallery initiated by the humanitarian project of philanthropist Elena Baturina—the winners of the inaugural BE OPEN Regional Art Competition have been unveiled, spotlighting extraordinary talent across South Asia.

Celebrating the Artists of South Asia

The competition included participants from numerous countries in the region, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka. Over the course of several months, nominated artists demonstrated their unique perspectives and insights through various artistic mediums.

The recognition began with Malinda Jayasinghe, a visual artist hailing from Gampaha, Sri Lanka, who was named the Artist of the Month for January. Malinda’s work delves into complex themes surrounding religious, racial, and gender privileges, while also critiquing contemporary societal structures. Utilizing diverse materials such as wood, concrete, and glass, his art captivates viewers with its depth and social commentary. Malinda’s artistic journey began in 2019 after earning his Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance; his passion for art blossomed further during his studies in Art History at Theertha International Artists Collective.

February brought recognition to Khando Wangmo from Mongar, Bhutan. The young artist, born in 1996, discovered her passion for art through her brother’s paintings. Determined to forge her own path in the art world, she joined VAST, a prominent non-profit organization in Bhutan, which aims to foster and promote local artists, back in 2020. Khando’s works reflect her growing artistic voice and connection to her culture.

Tandin Chophel, also from Bhutan, emerged as the Artist of the Month for March. Since he began exploring painting and drawing in 2018, Tandin has drawn on oil, acrylic, and watercolor to capture the nuances of human emotion intertwined with the natural world. His self-taught methodology underscores a fervent drive to understand the world around him, in part through researching the works of master artists through literature and visual resources.

Highlights of the Competition

In an exciting culmination, Tandin Chophel was voted the overall Artist of the Region for South Asia. As a reward for his outstanding work, he will receive a generous grant of €500. Another noteworthy mention is Pema Yangdon, a talented mixed media artist from Thimphu, Bhutan, who received the Founder’s Choice award. Born in 1997, Pema has always deemed art to be an integral aspect of her existence, blending various mediums to create engaging tapestries of inspiration. Her creations aim to transport the viewer into a realm of wonder and comfort, evoking a profound sense of connection and warmth.

The recognition from BE OPEN Art not only highlights the exceptional talents within South Asia but also emphasizes the rich cultural tapestry that these artists contribute to. Art serves as a vital voice, allowing individual experiences and societal narratives to unfold and resonate across borders.

Conclusion

The BE OPEN Regional Art Competition is more than just an event; it stands as a testament to the vibrant creativity flourishing within South Asia. As these artists continue to explore and share their unique perspectives, the world will undoubtedly be enriched by their stories and artistic expressions. As we celebrate their achievements, we look forward to witnessing how their journey unfolds, inspiring countless others along the way.