A comprehensive look at the cursive Umé class of Tibetan calligraphy.

Following the resounding success of this year’s Tibetan Uchen calligraphy retreat (as captured above)

For the first time in over a decade, Tashi teaches the art of writing the cursive Umé class of Tibetan calligraphy.

Offering a rare opportunity to study and practice in the beautiful and peacefully conducive atmosphere of Le Grand Banc – An extraordinary secluded hilltop private hamlet, surrounded by the wild nature of the Luberon hills in Provence, France. This place holds great legacy, where famous artists are inspired and high society once escaped.

Suitable for beginners to advanced calligraphers.

What to expect -Within a bright designated classroom, the course moves swiftly through the Tibetan alphabet of the Tsugtung Umé style, with comparisons to Uchen, Tsugring and Petsug. All other super and subscribed syllables, as well as punctuations of the Umé script. Focus will be on the shared mastery of penmanship in this field, with some mantra compositions explained.

During the retreat participants practice twice daily meditation with instruction, as to calm and focus the mind – primed to engage with two deep sessions of calligraphy instruction and practice throughout the day.

There is an in-house chef to provide vegetarian meals, with evening dinner marking a relaxed conclusion of the day, to heartily bond with fellow calligraphers.

Accommodation – Le Grand Banc comprises of individual apartments, which occupy the cluster of several stone buildings, comfortably furnished and graced with many inspiring artworks. There are en suite double apartments, to single or shared rooms – which differ in prices to suit.

Retreat price: Cost starts at £1,400 GBP for the week, all inclusive. Price may vary depending on room status, as above.

To book and secure a place on the retreat, please contact the immersion retreat operations manager Jax, as above. She will answer any questions, such as prices and advise on the most suitable apartment you may like to stay in.

Fly to: Marseille or Avignon airport

Train to: Avignon > Manosque

Airport Transfers: Group transfers are available on demand from Marseille.

Please bring: plenty of paper (advised A3 size) and all writing implements: pens, ink, pencil, sharpener, eraser, rule, note-book.

Recommended pens: a selection of the reliable Pilot Parallel pen nib sizes, 3.0, 3.8 and 4.5.

Above photograph showing Tsugtung Umé and video slide-show of Tibetan Uchen Calligraphy Retreat 2024: Luke Townsend

Testimonials –

“High on the hill overlooking the ancient village of Oppedette on the edge of the famous Gorges d’Oppedette canyon the hamlet of the Grand Banc is reserved exclusively for the participants.
Here is SPACE everywhere outside and in, views across the sky to the Luberon hills with exceptional sunsets. So there is CHOICE to walk far, wonder in the immense garden or simply wander in the fullness and quiétude of nature.
The day’s RHYTHM of calligraphy and pauses with scrumptious meals is encompassed by morning and evening meditation.
The delightful, amusing, kind and peaceful Tashi encourages everyone in the rigorous application of the most beautiful of scripts.
All these elements enable the participant to enter into the mystery and sanctity of human life and the wisdom and beauty of the Tibétan tradition.” – Verity J Gavin, on attending the Tibetan Calligraphy Retreat 2024.

“For somebody interested in Tibetan calligraphy and its rich interconnection with culture and religion, I can’t think of a better teacher, class, setting, atmosphere and place than Tashi’s master class at Le Grand Banc. Even as total beginner, you walk away with the fundamentals for continued self-practice and a unique spiritual experience you won’t forget.“ – Christian Schuchert, on attending the Tibetan Calligraphy Retreat 2024.

“I had the great opportunity to join Tashi Mannox’s Tibetan calligraphy course in France this past October. What started as a desire to be more creative while furthering my spiritual practice, ended up transforming into an experience that taught me discipline, presence, connection with the Buddhist teachings, and a deep appreciation for the art of calligraphy. And we did all of this in a beautiful and inspiring setting in Provence. Thank you Tashi for your calm presence, brilliant skills and deep wisdom!” – Sandra Mattar.

“Being at the right spot on the right time, one could say. What a wonderful moment in time this Tibetan Calligraphy Retreat has been! While staying at a very picturesque location which nature perfectly designed for a retreat like this we were included in that joyous happiness that emanates from Tashi Mannox and, in his enormous  wisdom he generously shares.Even watching the skilled, seemingly easy, flowingly dancing movements of his brush while the sacred Tibetan letters emerging with precision on the paper transforms one into a meditative state … as well as the Buddhist teachings, the meditations and, not to forget, the very delicious meals … all senses got the invitation of celebrating the beauty of life. Every part of the retreat carefully chosen and cared for makes it an unique experience which words cannot express.” – Susanna vd Zande.

“A week of Tibetan Calligraphy with Tashi Mannox has been a joyful and profound immersion into the art of sacred letters. It opened new perceptions into the place from where sounds and forms emerge.
The discipline of Tibetan calligraphy is pure delight! precise, rigorous… opening the door of silent awareness.” – Pema Gitama, on attending the Tibetan Calligraphy Retreat 2024.