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Sonam Yangdon

Murray Arts

Sonam Yangdon is a 21-year-old artist from Bhutan, currently residing in Albury. She came to Australia at the age of 15, starting midway through year ten. This significant change profoundly impacted her, leading to feelings of loneliness, homesickness, and depression throughout high school.
To cope, Sonam turned to creative expression. She began drawing and reading picture books at the school library, finding deep comfort in them. Through this, she discovered that picture books, often thought to be just for children, can explore complex themes.
Inspired particularly by the works of Shaun Tan, Sonam started writing in her diary and transforming her reflections into picture books.
Her works aim to offer solace to others experiencing similar emotions, exploring themes of love, compassion, and life.
Since then, Sonam has been selected for numerous art exhibitions, symposiums, and panel talks.

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At The End of The Waterfall
By Sonam Yangdon

There once was a girl with a dream
Of painting stories that made people feel
As she grew up her dream was shaken
And so she ran away
Away from her dreams and herself

A world within her began to fade

But deep within her heart
There was a door
A door that opened to a mountain
And the mountain stood tall
As though it was never shaken
Inside the mountain, a forest bloomed
A waterfall flowed
And at the end of the waterfall
There was a house
A house, guarding a room
with walls painted
And brushes scattered across the floor

And if she ever went there
The mountain would water her
And she would be planted to bloom
At the end of the waterfall

 

Artwork description

At the End of the Waterfall, 2024, Concept for picture book including illustrations, storyboard and Poem.

 

Artist Statement

“For the Artists who had to choose”
I initially wrote this book for myself, as I have always aspired to pursue a creative career but did not have the courage to do so. I eventually chose to study Podiatric Medicine. During my first year, I felt a lingering sense of guilt and betrayal.
Dedicating oneself to art can feel like a deep, almost spiritual commitment, making any deviation seem like neglecting one’s true potential. I felt guilty for not having the courage to fully pursue art and dedicate my life to it.
However, I came to the realization that it is possible to be both an artist and a podiatrist. It is not necessary to choose one over the other. This understanding eased the guilt and pressure I was feeling, improving my relationship with art. It became a more platonic connection rather than a possessive one.
This book is a source of comfort and closure for fellow artists. It conveys that one should not feel guilty for not fully committing to a creative career. Creativity resides within you and can coexist with other professional pursuits. It does not diminish with age, and you can embrace it at any time.

Sonam was mentor

ed by Author Gabrielle Tozer