Wang Rana Gurung
Artist
Bio
Wang Rana Gurung is visual artist based in Thimphu, a member of VAST Bhutan and Thimphu Comics Studio. He has been passionate about drawing and working with colours since childhood, and after completing his studies he pursued art as a full-time profession.
At the heart of his artistic practice is the concept of visual diary, which allows him to stay connected to the world around him. For Wang, art is not just about personal expression, it’s a way to engage with and reflect on society. He believes that creative people have the power to bring change to their communities by promoting culture, giving voice to important issues, and challenging societal norms.
Tierney Brown
Anthropologist
Bio
Dr. Tierney Brown is an anthropologist whose research looks at how Bhutan is innovating in what it means to care for “heritage.” Based in New York City, she can be found teaching at Hunter College, CUNY or working on community representation for the American Museum of Natural History.
When she’s lucky, she spends time in Thimphu listening to the little things currently lighting up people’s lives and working at the National Library and Archives of Bhutan.
Yangday La
Journalist
Bio
Yangday La is a writer, tailor, and actor based in Thimphu, Bhutan. She is the author of 108 from Bhutan , a book focused on inspiring women from the nation, and she works across screenwriting and filmmaking to bring stories to life both on and off screen.
Alongside her creative work, she runs a small handmade tailoring business. Known for her quick wit and warm presence, Yangday has hosted events and appeared on film & television. As a journalist and storyteller, she connects deeply with her audience, offering thoughtful, personal perspectives.
Yeshi Lhendup
Project Liaison and Advisor
Bio
Yeshi Lhendup is the senior research librarian at the National Library and Archives of Bhutan.
Inspired by his own education at Semtokha Rigney School and the Institute of Language of
Cultural Studies, he is passionate about the preservation of Bhutanese language and culture. He initiated the Intangible Cultural Heritage project to document Bhutanese lifeways and share
through an international UNESCO collaboration.
In addition to his duties supporting all kinds of
project across the National Library and Department of Culture, he teaches calligraphy and on
traditional arts across Bhutan.
Nima Tshering
Article Translator
Bio
Nima Tshering is an artist and translator whose love of traditional and modern art came from his upbringing in a Lhadripa family. He studied Buddhist Philosophy at the Institute of Science of Mind and earned a post graduate diploma in Dzongkha from the Paro College of Education.
As a lifelong learner he finds satisfaction in teaching and in improving his skills as an artist.
Supported by
National Library and Archives of Bhutan
Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development
Humanities New York
This project was supported by a Digital Humanities Seed Grant G-2403-10350.