Kathmandu, September 9
The 7th edition of the Himalayan Art Festival kicked off at the Nepal Art Council, Babar Mahal on September 8. This year’s festival features a remarkable collection of works by 115 veteran and emerging Nepali artists.
The Himalayan Art Festival stands out as a unique annual exhibition in Nepal, offering art enthusiasts a chance to experience a wide range of artistic expressions under one roof.
According to a press statement, the exhibition is curated by the artistic duo Sagar Manandhar and Pratima Thakali, the exhibition has garnered praise for its well-organised and visually impressive display of works. Thakali explained, “This time we have arranged the artworks according to the artists’ timelines, grouping them based on their artistic careers.”
Manandhar noted the sense of unity among the artists this year, saying, “In earlier days, visual artists, theatre artists, and literary figures worked together, but such collaborations had become rare in recent years. This time, however, all the artists have come together to make the festival even more beautiful. I believe this is the perfect way to grow together.”
It added that a special tribute is paid each year to one of Nepal’s senior artists, and this year, the festival honours the works of Sharada Chitrakar, a former Vice-Chancellor of the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). Her art is showcased on the ground floor of the exhibition hall, accompanied by a short documentary highlighting her life and artistic journey.
In addition to the exhibition, the festival features a range of interactive programmes. On September 9, there will be an open mic session, followed by an Art Talk and Panel Discussion on September 10. The Prashanta Scholarship Award ceremony, which has been held annually since 2003, will take place on September 11, honouring three students from Nepal’s leading art institutions: Lalitkala, Sirjana, and Kathmandu University. A guided tour of the exhibition is scheduled for September 12, and a Portrait Molding Workshop will be held on September 13.
This one-of-a-kind exhibition offers an unmissable opportunity for art lovers and enthusiasts alike. If you’re nearby, it’s a must-visit, which continues till September 14.
