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Celebrating Creativity: BE OPEN Art's South Asia Competition

BE OPEN Art, an esteemed online gallery founded by the humanitarian and international philanthropist Elena Baturina, recently announced the winners of its first phase of the BE OPEN art competition for the South Asia region in 2025. This year's competition embraced artistic talent from several countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.

In January, Malinda Jayasinghe, a visual artist from Gampaha, Sri Lanka, won the title of Artist of the Month. His work delves into complex themes of religious, racial, and gender privilege, alongside the complicity in systemic oppression. Utilizing unconventional materials like wood, concrete, and glass, Malinda's artistry is a reflection of his self-taught journey that began in 2019. With a background in economics and finance, he expanded his horizons by studying art history at Theertha International Artists Collective, shaping his creative practice.

Following this, in February, Khando Wangmo from Mongar, Bhutan, received the same honor. Born in 1996, she found early inspiration in her brother's paintings, eventually leading her to pursue a career in art. Her passion was further ignited when she joined VAST in 2020, an NGO dedicated to the support and promotion of local Bhutanese artists. Khando's work encapsulates the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan, articulated through her unique lens.

Tandin Chophel, a self-taught artist from Thimphu, Bhutan, was named Artist of the Month in March. He began exploring the world of art in 2018 and primarily works with mediums such as oils, acrylics, and watercolors. His creations seek to express the intricate relationship between human emotion and the natural world, inspired by the fleeting beauty of nature. Without formal training, Tandin immersed himself in the study of renowned artists, shaping his artistic vision through research and experimentation.

Ultimately, Tandin Chophel was recognized as the South Asia Regional Artist of the Year and awarded a grant of 500 euros. Additionally, Pema Yangdon, a mixed-media artist from the same city, received a commendation from the founder as another standout artist hailing from Thimphu. Born in 1997, Pema maintains a deep-rooted passion for art, which she sees as foundational in her life. Her practice embraces the fluidity of various styles and mediums, imparting a sense of wonder in her creations that resonate deeply with viewers.

The BE OPEN Art initiative not only highlights rising stars in the South Asian art scene but also seeks to create connections among artists across borders. By fostering this dialogue and providing platforms for expression, BE OPEN Art aims to empower artists worldwide, ensuring that creative voices continue to thrive and evolve. With the concluding phases of the competition expected to unveil more talents, the art community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this artistic journey.

In navigating through the complexities of identity and culture, artists like Malinda, Khando, Tandin, and Pema create a vivid tapestry of South Asia's artistic landscape. Their works invite contemplation and inspire change, making the art world not just a reflection of beauty, but also a powerful vehicle for social commentary and transformation.