GreenCraft Bhutan
My journey into the world of textiles began at 14, when I first started weaving. The craft remained incredibly close to my heart ever since. While my formal education includes Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Canberra, my true learning and inspiration come from over 16 years of immersive experience in Bhutan’s vibrant arts and crafts sector. My engagement with Tarayana Foundation and an extensive tenure at APIC provided invaluable opportunities to engage directly with artisans across the country.
This hands-on experience allowed me to conduct in-depth research on Bhutan’s rich natural dyeing techniques. I was also able to share this knowledge by training over 2,000 individuals through various dyeing programs. Witnessing the skill and dedication of these artisans, coupled with the breathtaking beauty of our natural resources, inspired me to establish GreenCraft Bhutan and design textiles. It is a profession born out of a passion for handmade crafts.
My biggest design influence stems from two significant sources. First, it is undoubtedly Bhutan’s natural environment and the long- standing textile traditions. The diverse palette of colors derived from our indigenous plants and insects, along with the intricate weaving techniques passed down through generations, constantly inspires my creations. Second, and very important, my mother played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding and passion for textiles. It was from her that I first learned about the intricacies of weaving and the inherent value in handcrafted goods. Her knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit have been a constant source of inspiration throughout my journey.
My extensive background working within Bhutan’s arts and crafts sector has ingrained in me a profound understanding of our country’s cultural values and artistic heritage. This understanding is the very foundation of GreenCraft Bhutan. We are committed to using natural fibers and dyes, reflecting our respect for the environment and our traditional practices. The motifs and patterns found in our textiles are often inspired by Bhutanese art, architecture, and spiritual beliefs, ensuring that each piece carries a story and a connection to our cultural identity.
Creative experiences
Establishing GreenCraft Bhutan has been a pivotal step. It allowed me to fully realize my vision of creating high-quality, eco-friendly textiles that honor our heritage while appealing to a contemporary sensibility. My years spent researching natural dyeing techniques and working directly with artisans have provided an invaluable foundation, shaping not only my technical skills but also my understanding of the cultural significance embedded within our textile traditions.
Witnessing the positive impact of the EU-Bhutan Trade Support Project that successfully supported 20 textile entrepreneurs in entering export markets, was a particularly rewarding experience, demonstrating the global potential of Bhutanese craftsmanship.
I would describe my signature style as a harmonious blend of traditional Bhutanese aesthetics and contemporary design principles. I draw inspiration from the natural beauty of Bhutan and incorporate motifs that carry deep cultural significance. However, my approach leans towards minimalist color palettes and thoughtful arrangements of these motifs, creating pieces that feel both timeless and modern. A unique aspect of my work is using my extensive knowledge of natural dyes to “tell stories” within the weaves. By skillfully manipulating dye materials to achieve a spectrum of shades, each textile narrates a subtle yet meaningful visual journey.
Several factors set GreenCraft’s designs apart. Primarily, our unwavering commitment to using natural fibers and dyes ensures an eco-conscious approach that resonates with a growing global awareness. Next, the deep cultural narrative embedded in our motifs and the “dye stories” offer a layer of meaning often absent in mass-produced textiles.
Furthermore, the recognition of our products through the Seal of Quality and the Seal of excellence underscores our dedication to superior craftsmanship and design innovation.
Finally, the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary minimalist aesthetic creates pieces that are both authentic and relevant in today’s design landscape.
Fashion vision BFW 2025
For BFW 2025, I am thrilled to present a collection that is deeply inspired by the profound wisdom and artistic symbolism of Buddhism. My collection is known as “Yeshey Thag- Wisdom Weave”. This collection intricately weaves together the essence of the Five Wisdom Buddha and it elements- Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space, and their symbolic representations.
Each element and each Buddha embody unique qualities and narratives. Through the textures of the natural fibers, the colors derived from our traditional natural dyeing techniques, and the motifs woven into the fabric, I aim to evoke the specific characteristics of each element and the wisdom of each Buddha. For instance, the grounded stability of Earth might be represented through heavier textures and earthy tones, while the transformative power of Fire could be expressed through vibrant reds and dynamic patterns. Similarly, each Buddha’s unique attributes, such as wisdom, compassion, and skillful means, will be subtly woven into the design and flow of the garments.
The central story I wish to communicate with this collection is one of harmony, balance, and the interconnectedness of all things, principles deeply rooted in Buddhist philosophy. By drawing upon these powerful symbols, I hope to create textiles that not only adorn the body but also serve as a reminder of our inner potential and our relationship with the cosmos. It’s a collection that seeks to bridge the spiritual and the material, inviting contemplation and appreciation for the rich cultural and philosophical heritage of Bhutan.
My expectations for Bhutan Fashion Week 2025 are multifaceted. First, I hope to connect with a wider audience, both within Bhutan and internationally, to share the unique story and craftsmanship behind GreenCraft Bhutan’s textiles. I believe BFW will provide an invaluable platform to showcase the depth and artistry of Bhutanese textiles and to foster a greater appreciation for sustainable and culturally significant fashion. Second, I am eager to engage with fellow designers, industry professionals, and buyers to explore potential collaborations and opportunities for growth. Ultimately, I hope this collection will contribute to elevating the profile of Bhutanese textiles on a global stage and inspire a deeper understanding of our cultural identity through the art of weaving and natural dyeing.
Looking ahead, I envision the future of fashion in Bhutan as one that increasingly embraces and celebrates our unique cultural heritage, while also engaging with contemporary global trends in a mindful and sustainable way. I believe there’s a growing appreciation for handcrafted, natural, and ethically produced fashion. Bhutan has an incredible opportunity to be a leader in slow fashion, emphasizing quality, tradition, and environmental consciousness. I anticipate seeing more collaborations between traditional artisans and contemporary designers, leading to innovative and culturally rich creations. Furthermore, with increasing global awareness of sustainability, Bhutan’s deep-rooted traditions of natural dyeing and weaving with natural fibers position us uniquely to contribute to a more responsible and meaningful fashion landscape.
Contact and Social Media
Phone: 17116272
Instagram: greencraftbhutan
