Bhutan has a rich artistic and craft tradition which was practised since ancient times, mostly in accordance with the natural products from the environment. However, it was in the 17th century that the state promoted the thirteen arts and crafts of Bhutan. Today, the artistic traditions and crafstmanship are promoted and disseminated by many state institutions and also actively practised in Bhutanese communities. Many people still earn their livelihood from artistic and craft production.