Celebrating Artistic Excellence: BE OPEN Art Honors Winners of South Asia Art Contest

BE OPEN Art Announces South Asia Art Contest Winners

On April 23, 2025, BE OPEN Art, an online gallery established by the humanitarian initiative BE OPEN, proudly celebrated the remarkable artists emerging from the South Asian region. This initiative, spearheaded by international businesswoman and philanthropist Elena Baturina, aims to support and promote artistic talents across Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.

The winners from the first phase of the 2025 Regional Art Contest reflect a rich tapestry of creativity and cultural expression. The recognition commenced in January with Malinda Jayasinghe, a visual artist from Gampaha, Sri Lanka, being awarded the title of Artist of the Month. Her artwork delves into profound themes of religious, racial, and gender privilege, showcasing the complexities of structural oppression through her innovative use of materials including wood, concrete, and glass. A self-taught artist, Malinda started her artistic journey in 2019 after completing her degree in Economics and Finance. Her practice blossomed further after studying Art History at the International Artists Collective, Theertha.

In February, the spotlight shifted to Khando Wangmo from Mongar, Bhutan. Born in 1996, Wangmo was fascinated by her brother’s paintings from a young age, which ignited her passion for art. This drive led her to join VAST, a prominent NGO that actively supports local artists in Bhutan, in 2020. Her works capture the essence of Bhutanese culture and the natural beauty of her surroundings.

The following month, March, brought the recognition of Tandin Chophel, an artist also hailing from Thimphu, Bhutan. Tandin explored drawing and painting since 2018, utilizing oil, acrylic, and watercolor to capture the interplay between human emotions and nature. His love for the fleeting beauty of the natural world inspires his creations, despite his lack of formal artistic training, with a keen interest in studying significant artists through literature.

As the overall winner of the South Asia Region Contest, Tandin Chophel received a scholarship worth 500 euros. Additionally, Pema Yangdon, a mixed-media artist from Thimphu, Bhutan, was awarded a cash prize as the founder's selected artist. Born in 1997, Pema's enduring passion for art infuses her creations which invite viewers to experience the wonder and comfort within her pieces. She enjoys experimenting with different mediums and styles, allowing her inspiration to dictate the form of each artwork.

This recognition not only spotlights the individual talents of these artists but also emphasizes the importance of artistic expression in challenging societal norms and fostering cultural dialogue in the region. Through initiatives like the BE OPEN Art contest, a broader audience is exposed to diverse narratives and artistic practices that reflect the regions' rich cultural heritage.

In conclusion, BE OPEN Art's initiative stands as a testament to the creativity found across South Asia, nurturing local artists, and encouraging the fusion of contemporary and traditional art forms. By supporting such platforms, we witness the birth of new voices and perspectives that are essential to the global artistic landscape.