School of 13 Arts and Crafts

National Institute for Zorig Chusum or the School of Arts and Crafts is an Institute where students undertake a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.
“Zorig Chusum” means the Thirteen Arts and Crafts. To preserve the country’s invaluable heritage and promote arts in Bhutan, the government initiated this institute in 1971. Students are taught painting, calligraphy, embroidery, wood carving, and sculpture. They also learn the traditional meaning and spiritual values enshrined in Buddhist art. On a visit one can actually see students at work. The students follow a comprehensive course that starts with drawing and progresses through painting, wood carving, embroidery, and statue- making. This institute not only helps preserve our beautiful heritage but also equips future generations with skills and knowledge to keep our own heritage alive. The 13 arts and crafts comprise of; painting, carpentry, carving, sculpture, casting, blacksmithing, bamboo work, gold and silversmithing, weaving, embroidery, masonry, leather work, and paper making.