Beautiful thangka paintings are on show at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities in Beijing celebrating cultural depth and social developments. [Photo by Lin Qi/chinadaily.com.cn]

Thangka is often described as a painterly encyclopedia of Tibetan culture. Using vivid pigments derived from natural materials, it forms a portable mural that embodies history, culture, wisdom and belief.

Three thangka paintings have recently been added to the collection of the Cultural Palace of Nationalities in Beijing. They are among dozens of newly created thangka paintings now on display at an exhibition at the venue.

Distinguished by confident brushstrokes and graceful color arrangements, the paintings showcase the aesthetics of thangka art. At the same time, they reflect the economic, social and cultural improvements in the Xizang autonomous region over the past six decades.

Beautiful thangka paintings are on show at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities in Beijing celebrating cultural depth and social developments. [Photo by Lin Qi/chinadaily.com.cn]

Beautiful thangka paintings are on show at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities in Beijing celebrating cultural depth and social developments. [Photo by Lin Qi/chinadaily.com.cn]

Beautiful thangka paintings are on show at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities in Beijing celebrating cultural depth and social developments. [Photo by Lin Qi/chinadaily.com.cn]

Beautiful thangka paintings are on show at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities in Beijing celebrating cultural depth and social developments. [Photo by Lin Qi/chinadaily.com.cn]