The document discusses the history and development of art in Nepal from ancient to contemporary times. It begins by describing how ancient Nepali artists were inspired by religious devotion to carve stone sculptures of deities. It then outlines how various art forms like metalwork, woodcarving, and painting evolved under royal patronage. The document also discusses how contemporary Nepali art has been influenced by Western styles but still draws from traditional and global themes. It notes how contemporary art now has more freedom of expression and is supported by art galleries and online platforms.
Heritage of any nation is best represented by its culture, beliefs and traditions. A subset of these that has given India, a profound identity for India is Art. Art forms in India exist since time immemorial. Over the past century, Indian Art has undergone through vast and diverse change in their forms that exist in the present. For instance, the themes chosen by the traditional painters were societal. But later with the emergence of modernists followed by the contemporaries, the facets of Indian painting were changed radically.
This presentation sketches out the journey of Indian Art through modern era to contemporary era. It depicts the influence of key foreign traditions and art movements on the Indian art.
PAINTINGS
A MINIATURE PAINTING OF MEDIVAL PERIOD
INTRODUCTION
Indian painting has a very long tradition and history in Indian art.
The earliest Indian paintings were the rock paintings of pre-historic times, the petroglyphs as found in places like Bhimbetka , some of them from before 5500 BC.
India's Buddhist literature is replete with examples of texts which describe palaces of the army and the aristocratic class embellished with paintings, but the paintings of the Ajanta Caves are the most significant of the few survivals.
Indian paintings provide an aesthetic continuum that extends from the early civilisation to the present day.
From being essentially religious in purpose in the beginning, Indian painting has evolved over the years to become a fusion of various cultures and traditions.
Some Genres of Indian painting
Murals
Miniature painting
Eastern Indian painting
Western Indian painting
Mughal painting
Rajput painting
Tanjore painting
Modern Indian painting
PAINTING OF AJANTA CAVES
Paintings of Ajanta caves are mainly based on the episodes drawn from the life of Lord Buddha .
Ajanta caves are the treasure house of delicate paintings. Some of them also portray scenes from Jataka tales.
The temples are excavated out of batholitic cliffs on the inner side of a seventy-foot valley in the Wagurna River vale, at a site where beauty dropped her image.
Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Cave 1
Features of Paintings of Ajanta
The Ajanta paintings stresses on religious romanticism with lyric quality, a reflection of the view that every aspect of life has an equal value in the spiritual sense and as an aspect of the divine.
The paintings are done by covering the rough surface of the wall with a layer of clay or cow dung mixed with chopped straw or animal hair. When this has been smoothed and levelled, it is given a varnish of fine white clay or gypsum and it is on this ground that the painting is done.
Ceiling Paintings of Ajanta
The most famous paintings at Ajanta caves are in `Cave I`. The shape of the cave is a square hall with the roof supported by rows of pillars.
There is a rock cut image of a seated Buddha at the back of the shrine. The most unusual feature of the cave is parts of the complete decoration of the flat ceiling. There are scenes carved from the life of Lord Buddha as well as a number of ornamental motifs.
In the paintings of Ajanta there are beautifully drawn female figures of dusky complexion wearing towering head-dresses that strongly resembles the sophisticated mukuta, crowning the Bodhisattva himself.
. This is a representation of the Shakti or female of the Bodhisattva, one of the many indications of the intrusions of Hindu concepts into Buddhism .
The paintings of the ceiling of Cave I at Ajanta is executed in a more flat, enhancing style and the space is divided into a number of adjacent panels square and rectangular in form, which are filled with subjects and showy
Heritage of any nation is best represented by its culture, beliefs and traditions. A subset of these that has given India, a profound identity for India is Art. Art forms in India exist since time immemorial. Over the past century, Indian Art has undergone through vast and diverse change in their forms that exist in the present. For instance, the themes chosen by the traditional painters were societal. But later with the emergence of modernists followed by the contemporaries, the facets of Indian painting were changed radically.
This presentation sketches out the journey of Indian Art through modern era to contemporary era. It depicts the influence of key foreign traditions and art movements on the Indian art.
PAINTINGS
A MINIATURE PAINTING OF MEDIVAL PERIOD
INTRODUCTION
Indian painting has a very long tradition and history in Indian art.
The earliest Indian paintings were the rock paintings of pre-historic times, the petroglyphs as found in places like Bhimbetka , some of them from before 5500 BC.
India's Buddhist literature is replete with examples of texts which describe palaces of the army and the aristocratic class embellished with paintings, but the paintings of the Ajanta Caves are the most significant of the few survivals.
Indian paintings provide an aesthetic continuum that extends from the early civilisation to the present day.
From being essentially religious in purpose in the beginning, Indian painting has evolved over the years to become a fusion of various cultures and traditions.
Some Genres of Indian painting
Murals
Miniature painting
Eastern Indian painting
Western Indian painting
Mughal painting
Rajput painting
Tanjore painting
Modern Indian painting
PAINTING OF AJANTA CAVES
Paintings of Ajanta caves are mainly based on the episodes drawn from the life of Lord Buddha .
Ajanta caves are the treasure house of delicate paintings. Some of them also portray scenes from Jataka tales.
The temples are excavated out of batholitic cliffs on the inner side of a seventy-foot valley in the Wagurna River vale, at a site where beauty dropped her image.
Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Cave 1
Features of Paintings of Ajanta
The Ajanta paintings stresses on religious romanticism with lyric quality, a reflection of the view that every aspect of life has an equal value in the spiritual sense and as an aspect of the divine.
The paintings are done by covering the rough surface of the wall with a layer of clay or cow dung mixed with chopped straw or animal hair. When this has been smoothed and levelled, it is given a varnish of fine white clay or gypsum and it is on this ground that the painting is done.
Ceiling Paintings of Ajanta
The most famous paintings at Ajanta caves are in `Cave I`. The shape of the cave is a square hall with the roof supported by rows of pillars.
There is a rock cut image of a seated Buddha at the back of the shrine. The most unusual feature of the cave is parts of the complete decoration of the flat ceiling. There are scenes carved from the life of Lord Buddha as well as a number of ornamental motifs.
In the paintings of Ajanta there are beautifully drawn female figures of dusky complexion wearing towering head-dresses that strongly resembles the sophisticated mukuta, crowning the Bodhisattva himself.
. This is a representation of the Shakti or female of the Bodhisattva, one of the many indications of the intrusions of Hindu concepts into Buddhism .
The paintings of the ceiling of Cave I at Ajanta is executed in a more flat, enhancing style and the space is divided into a number of adjacent panels square and rectangular in form, which are filled with subjects and showy
website : www.batikklasik.com
Kami Batik Klasik dapat membuat batik sesuai selera anda karena batik kami bisa di custom dengan berbagai macam. Mau order banyak dengan harga grosir atau ingin satuan dengan harga ecer. Segera hubungi kami agar anda dapat batik yang spesial.
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Phone : MUNDARSO 0821-3939-2345 WA
The Art of Chinese Painting (Speaker: Vincent Lee Kwun-leung) VincentKwunLeungLee
The Sui Wo Study Centre (瑞禾學社) locates in Tai Wai (大圍), which is administered by a Catholic institution called "Opus Dei" (主業會).
The Sui Wo Study Centre gathers a group of "elite-minded" actual students and alumni from Tak Sun Secondary School (德信中學), KATSO members (天主教同學會成員) from CUHK or other local universities, Spanish and Filippino exchange students who study at the local universities, and Catholic youngsters who grew up from the parishes and secondary schools in Sha Tin or Tai Po District, to jointly practise a professional mode of apostolic lifestyle with a commitment to their favourite occupations in the secular world.
On 8 and 22 February 2014, the Sui Wo Study Centre invited Vincent Lee Kwun-leung (李冠良) to conduct a Chinese art history lecture for the attendees, which corresponded with the festive atmosphere of Chinese New Year celebration.
The Chinese art masters that Vincent Lee selected for his lecture were:
(1) Li Sixun (李思訓) and Zhou Fang (周昉) from Tang Dynasty
(2) Emperor Song Huizhong (宋徽宗) and Cui Bo (崔白) from Song Dynasty
(3) Wang Meng (王蒙) from Yuan Dynasty
(4) Gong Xian (龔賢) from Ming Dynasty
(5) Shi Tao (石濤) from Qing Dynasty
(6) Xu Beihong (徐悲鴻) from Republican Era
(7) Zhang Daqian (張大千) from Communist Era
One of the important highlights was that, Dr. Peter Herbert (B.A., P.G.C.E., Lic. en Fil. y Let., M. Ed., Ph.D.), Principal of Tak Sun Secondary School (德信中學), was one of the attendees to listen to Vincent Lee's in-depth aesthetic interpretations.
this is the presentation of Chinese art history these are the few collection of images of ancient Chinese history. hope you guys loved watching this ppt share this presentation
website : www.batikklasik.com
Kami Batik Klasik dapat membuat batik sesuai selera anda karena batik kami bisa di custom dengan berbagai macam. Mau order banyak dengan harga grosir atau ingin satuan dengan harga ecer. Segera hubungi kami agar anda dapat batik yang spesial.
Dailymotion : http://www.dailymotion.com/batikklasik
youtube : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsFClp6O8YYwq2D9UbqPEnQ
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Batikklasikcom-1938817166359588/
Instagram : http://www.instagram.com/batikklasiksolo/
Pinterest : http://id.pinterest.com/batikklasik/
Tumblr : http://www.tumblr.com/blog/batikklasik
Twitter : https://twitter.com/BatikKlasikSolo
Phone : MUNDARSO 0821-3939-2345 WA
The Art of Chinese Painting (Speaker: Vincent Lee Kwun-leung) VincentKwunLeungLee
The Sui Wo Study Centre (瑞禾學社) locates in Tai Wai (大圍), which is administered by a Catholic institution called "Opus Dei" (主業會).
The Sui Wo Study Centre gathers a group of "elite-minded" actual students and alumni from Tak Sun Secondary School (德信中學), KATSO members (天主教同學會成員) from CUHK or other local universities, Spanish and Filippino exchange students who study at the local universities, and Catholic youngsters who grew up from the parishes and secondary schools in Sha Tin or Tai Po District, to jointly practise a professional mode of apostolic lifestyle with a commitment to their favourite occupations in the secular world.
On 8 and 22 February 2014, the Sui Wo Study Centre invited Vincent Lee Kwun-leung (李冠良) to conduct a Chinese art history lecture for the attendees, which corresponded with the festive atmosphere of Chinese New Year celebration.
The Chinese art masters that Vincent Lee selected for his lecture were:
(1) Li Sixun (李思訓) and Zhou Fang (周昉) from Tang Dynasty
(2) Emperor Song Huizhong (宋徽宗) and Cui Bo (崔白) from Song Dynasty
(3) Wang Meng (王蒙) from Yuan Dynasty
(4) Gong Xian (龔賢) from Ming Dynasty
(5) Shi Tao (石濤) from Qing Dynasty
(6) Xu Beihong (徐悲鴻) from Republican Era
(7) Zhang Daqian (張大千) from Communist Era
One of the important highlights was that, Dr. Peter Herbert (B.A., P.G.C.E., Lic. en Fil. y Let., M. Ed., Ph.D.), Principal of Tak Sun Secondary School (德信中學), was one of the attendees to listen to Vincent Lee's in-depth aesthetic interpretations.
this is the presentation of Chinese art history these are the few collection of images of ancient Chinese history. hope you guys loved watching this ppt share this presentation
Khajuraho is famous for its stunning temples that date back to the 10th and 12th centuries. While these temples and their intricate architecture is something that attracts tourists to this UNESCO World Heritage site, there are many secrets and stories about these temples that are not known by many.
Magao caves are situated at a strategic point along the Silk Route, at the crossroads of trade as well as religious, cultural and intellectual influences.
Dhakal 1Dhakal 7Rupesh DhakalProfessor Richard MillerAR.docxcuddietheresa
Dhakal 1
Dhakal 7
Rupesh Dhakal
Professor Richard Miller
ARTS-1301-77204
7 October 2019
Research Paper: Museum Visit
This paper focuses on my visit to a museum and the art work presented there. I have visited the museum last week particularly for this assignment. The museum name is Dallas Museum of Art.
Part # 1
For this part I have selected an art work named “standing female figure.” Standing Female Figure is belongs to the Mexico: state of Tamaulipas of Huastec culture. This art piece is a part of Early Post-classic period, c. A.D. 900 - 1250 Sandstone Gift of Norbert Schimmel in memory of Evelin Schimmel, 1989.82. It is presented in Dallas Museum of Art. This sculpture is made up of clay. It is of brown color, and visually it is a lady who is standing straight. Its condition is good, but I saw few cracks on it which shows it’s a part of a very old heritage.
Although there is no long description of the art piece on the wall of museum, but the as I research about “standing female figure,” I found that the artist intended to describe the rights of a woman of that time. At the time, in Mexico there are near to no rights given to the woman and the artist observed that issue and created a sculpture with clay with a hope to present a true image and role of a woman in the society. This sculpture “standing female figure” gives a message of equal rights and a very important role of females in building up the community.
In early post-classic period, c. A.D. 900 – 1250, the Mexican people failed to provide equal rights to both the genders and discriminate among male and female. The very important point and message is hidden in this sculpture “standing female figure” that woman have a very important role to create a successful society. There are many emotions connected with this art piece because after thousands of years later this social issue still exists in our world, there are so many places where we swab the rights of women and trying to compress their roles in the society. This art piece “standing female figure” is able to take you in that time.
Here is my picture with the “Standing Female Figure.” It was a great experience of visiting the museum and witnesses so many artworks under one roof. This gave me an opportunity to analysis and learned more about art and the history and messages attached to them. Standing Female Figure seems so old and unique in a way and also describing its message of the female role in a society of its time very simply. It’s a beautiful clay statue, standing and welcoming people who came to visit her and simply explaining the artist’s message.
Part # 2
Recently, I got a chance to visit the "Dallas Museum of Art" for the first time. That evening allowed me to study and examine art on a significant level by building skills and relationships with artworks by the decades. I was assigned the responsibility to choose three artworks and to record a social analysis highlighting the components and beliefs of art before stu ...
This Presentation is prepared for Graduate Students. A presentation consisting of basic information regarding the topic. Students are advised to get more information from recommended books and articles. This presentation is only for students and purely for academic purposes. The pictures/Maps included in the presentation are taken/copied from the internet. The presenter is thankful to them and herewith courtesy is given to all. This presentation is only for academic purposes.
SPILL THE BEANS, was a talk show, that VIVACITY Magazine brought out every month. An interactive discussion with youth and students on issues that influence their perspective of life
Research & Questions - Arun Khanna
Host - Priyanka Karki
The arterial lanes of Kathmandu are good transitional spots that can make it easy to bypass traffic bottlenecks and choking pollution. Best done with the bicycle. What could ‘bicycle cities’ of the world teach Kathmandu to gain this advantage - Arun Khanna
A fashion photo feature which shows a model in a variety of casual and formal dresses , strolling among the traditional landmarks of Patan in Kathmandu valley
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Srijana Regmi
The cover depicts a fashion model in a retro upbeat mood, that captures a classic yet edgy attitude towards fashion in films.A sharp background shadow suggests a film noir look retaining elements of glamour.
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Nisha Adhikari
The model personifies fashion and glamour with a movie style attitude. The slight retro attire depicts a classic composure
Drama is added with a sharp shadow against the backdrop.
Creative Direction - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Nisha Adhikari
The picture is located in the thick wet undergrowth of jungle area in Shivpuri conservation area, Nepal. The picture depicts a sensual summer mood in a bikini. With no beaches in Nepal, this photo takes its sensuality from the jungle in a play of light and shades
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Shanaya Joshi
Location - Shivpuri National Park, Nepal
The creative direction of the cover, accentuates the erotic elements of the picture with the use of a dark background, the tilted body language and lowered eyes of the model, the shallow depth of field that recedes across the cleavage. We took the shot of the model as she lay on the floor and then swirled the pic to an upright position.
Creative Direction - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Raksha Thapa
The cover features a fashion model, languidly leaning against the keyboard of a piano
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Harisha Baniya
Location - Hotel Shangrila, Kathmandu
The cover photo features a dusky toned fashion model, during an autumn evening in the Chitwan Jungle, a national conservation area of Nepal.
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Priyanka Karki
Location - Chitwan National Park, Nepal
A take on bollywood theatrics, vivacity 24Arun Khanna
In fond memory of songs, dance and drama over the decades of maudlin emotion, social hiccups & causes – a take on Bollywood’s style that marks the distinct decades from the 1950s to the 2000s -
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Priyanka Karki
Location - Everest Hotel, Kathmandu
The opulent luxury of Fulbari Resort in Pokhara, Nepal, presented through the artistic ambiance of this resort.
Creative Director - Arun Khanna
Photographer - Rajiv Shrestha
Model - Riju Shrestha
Kathmandu in movie posters! VIVACITY 30Arun Khanna
A tongue in cheek, humorous and wacky photo feature through posters, on popular, mundane or bothering routines & happening that remain invested in the daily life, style and pop culture of Kathmandu…fashion, smog, power cuts…
The pulsating distance between a kiss and its evolutionary choreography
remains the artistic finesse of poets, movie directors, novelists and the
amorous. Its technical dynamics makes it even seem bizarre and funny,
leaping up to lock lips, angling the nose out of the way, managing the
tongue - after having used 34 muscles just for the pout alone!
Care Instructions for Activewear & Swim Suits.pdfsundazesurf80
SunDaze Surf offers top swimwear tips: choose high-quality, UV-protective fabrics to shield your skin. Opt for secure fits that withstand waves and active movement. Bright colors enhance visibility, while adjustable straps ensure comfort. Prioritize styles with good support, like racerbacks or underwire tops, for active beach days. Always rinse swimwear after use to maintain fabric integrity.
La transidentité, un sujet qui fractionne les FrançaisIpsos France
Ipsos, l’une des principales sociétés mondiales d’études de marché dévoile les résultats de son étude Ipsos Global Advisor “Pride 2024”. De ses débuts aux Etats-Unis et désormais dans de très nombreux pays, le mois de juin est traditionnellement consacré aux « Marches des Fiertés » et à des événements festifs autour du concept de Pride. A cette occasion, Ipsos a réalisé une enquête dans vingt-six pays dressant plusieurs constats. Les clivages des opinions entre générations s’accentuent tandis que le soutien à des mesures sociétales et d’inclusion en faveur des LGBT+ notamment transgenres continue de s’effriter.
Have you ever wondered about the lost city of Atlantis and its profound connection to our modern world? Ruth Elisabeth Hancock’s podcast, “Visions of Atlantis,” delves deep into this intriguing topic in a captivating conversation with Michael Le Flem, author of the enlightening book titled “Visions of Atlantis.” This podcast episode offers a thought-provoking blend of historical inquiry, esoteric wisdom, and contemporary reflections. Let’s embark on a journey of discovery as we unpack the mysteries of ancient civilizations and their relevance to our present existence.
Johnny Depp Long Hair: A Signature Look Through the Yearsgreendigital
Johnny Depp, synonymous with eclectic roles and unparalleled acting prowess. has also been a significant figure in fashion and style. Johnny Depp long hair is a distinctive trademark among the various elements that define his unique persona. This article delves into the evolution, impact. and cultural significance of Johnny Depp long hair. exploring how it has contributed to his iconic status.
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Introduction
Johnny Depp is an actor known for his chameleon-like ability to transform into a wide range of characters. from the eccentric Captain Jack Sparrow in "Pirates of the Caribbean" to the introspective Edward Scissorhands. His long hair is one constant throughout his evolving roles and public appearances. Johnny Depp long hair is not a style choice but a significant aspect of his identity. contributing to his allure and mystique. This article explores the journey and significance of Johnny Depp long hair. highlighting how it has become integral to his brand.
The Early Years: A Budding Star with Signature Locks
1980s: The Rise of a Young Heartthrob
Johnny Depp's journey in Hollywood began in the 1980s. with his breakout role in the television series "21 Jump Street." During this time, his hair was short, but it was already clear that Depp had a penchant for unique and edgy styles. By the decade's end, Depp started experimenting with longer hair. setting the stage for a lifelong signature.
1990s: From Heartthrob to Icon
The 1990s were transformative for Johnny Depp his career and personal style. Films like "Edward Scissorhands" (1990) and "Benny & Joon" (1993) saw Depp sporting various hair lengths and styles. But, his long, unkempt hair in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" (1993) began to draw significant attention. This period marked the beginning of Johnny Depp long hair. which became a defining feature of his image.
The Iconic Roles: Hair as a Character Element
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
In "Edward Scissorhands," Johnny Depp's character had a wild and mane that complemented his ethereal and misunderstood persona. This role showcased how long hair Johnny Depp could enhance a character's depth and mystery.
Captain Jack Sparrow: The Pirate with Flowing Locks
One of Johnny Depp's iconic roles is Captain Jack Sparrow from the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series. Sparrow's long, dreadlocked hair symbolised his rebellious and unpredictable nature. The character's look, complete with beads and trinkets woven into his hair. was a collaboration between Depp and the film's costume designers. This style became iconic and influenced fashion trends and Halloween costumes worldwide.
Other Memorable Characters
Depp's long hair has also been featured in other roles, such as Ichabod Crane in "Sleepy Hollow" (1999). and Roux in "Chocolat" (2000). In these films, his hair added a layer of authenticity and depth to his characters. proving that Johnny Depp with long hair is more than a style—it's a storytelling tool.
Off-Screen Influenc
MRS PUNE 2024 - WINNER AMRUTHAA UTTAM JAGDHANEDK PAGEANT
Amruthaa Uttam Jagdhane, a stunning woman from Pune, has won the esteemed title of Mrs. India 2024, which is given out by the Dk Exhibition. Her journey to this prestigious accomplishment is a confirmation of her faithful assurance, extraordinary gifts, and profound commitment to enabling women.
Is your favorite ring slipping and sliding on your finger? You're not alone. Must Read this Guide on What To Do If Your Ring Is Too Big as shared by the experts of Andrews Jewelers.
From Stress to Success How Oakland's Corporate Wellness Programs are Cultivat...Kitchen on Fire
Discover how Oakland's innovative corporate wellness initiatives are transforming workplace culture, nurturing the well-being of employees, and fostering a thriving environment. From comprehensive mental health support to flexible work arrangements and holistic wellness workshops, these programs are empowering individuals to navigate stress effectively, leading to increased productivity, satisfaction, and overall success.
1. 34 vivacity magazine • june 2011 www.vivacitymagazines.com 35june 2011 • vivacity magazinewww.vivacitymagazines.com
There can’t be art without inspiration. It is the first canvas, studio or
workshop of the artist, and that is where it shapes before the display.
arun KHanna
cover story
There can’t be art without inspiration. It is the first canvas, studio or
workshop of the artist, and that is where it shapes before the display.
There can’t be art without inspiration. It is the first canvas, studio or
workshop of the artist, and that is where it shapes before the display.
InspirationsInspirationsInspirations
Arts
craftsmen coloring the world
heritage stupa at Boudhanath
ArtsArtsInspirations
ArtsInspirations
and
2. 36 vivacity magazine • june 2011 www.vivacitymagazines.com 37june 2011 • vivacity magazinewww.vivacitymagazines.com
undertook to work with his chisel or brush. Not only
the theme was religious but the artist imbued with a
feeling of religious devotion rendered also his task in
that spirit”
This devotion has permeated through time and lies at
the core of the arts and their inspiration in Nepal.
In a contemporary sense of the word inspiration
has travelled many roads to the same destination
- fulfillment of the creative urge carried through
intellect or emotion. Inspiration has its sources in
diverse thoughts and experiences. For some it lies
in ordinary conversation itself. For others the stark
nakednessofbeingordinarycancomeasahugesurge
for doing something distinct. Many see inspiration
in the power to overcome disabilities, the relentless
head on collisions with hurdles which creates awe in
those who watch. Again some see it in relationships.
For instance an adult who has seen his parents in love
since childhood, is sure to think love affairs do move
towards happy endings!
Deep down, traditions of Nepalese culture and
expression are not based on the ideas of proven fact,
but on the unquestionable acceptance of something
that has always been done by faith. Faith is above
substantiated fact. Objects associated with daily life
- a terracotta oil lamp, a metal receptacle or a stone
water spout hewn in the shape of a makara hold this
veryfaiththatpoursitselfintoart.Andyetitisnotjust
the tangible which brings moments of inspiration,
but the huge repository of intangible heritage. The
continuing flux of oral traditions, folklore, songs and
dance forms add to the arts and its inspiration on a
regular basis.
Traditional
Faith even makes the Gods and deities preside
over the arts themselves. Kathmandu alone has
over thirty-two temples for Nasa Dyo, the Newari
god of the performance arts, music, dance and
drama. Community celebrations have always been a
source of inspiration. The week long Bhidyo Boyegu
ceremony, as an example, is a Newar tradition - now
in decline - when Bahas in the valley display Paughas
paintings for public worship. Scrolls have been the
W
hat could have been the primordial
urge which perhaps made a farmer
leavehislushfields,afamilymanleave
his wife and children at the break
of dawn, or maybe a young man detach the twined
hand of a beloved, to walk across cool dewed grass
trails in search of a meaningless cold rock? Carry it
back, and somewhere in secluded quite incessantly
hammer it for days. Come back to it again and again;
wedge it open, chisel it, till a chipped scarred shape
would stare out from the rock. And what would
that shape be, which he would again spend days to
burnish, with delicate, aching, intimate force?
The place perhaps might have been Lalittapatan,
or Patan. And the rock may well have been carried
from the highlands of Chobar or Kirtipur which have
been know for durable stone quarries. Stone was the
first medium of expression by such people whose
work today is called art, as known from the stone
sculptures of the 4th
century Lichavvi era of Nepal
So what were these shapes?
Above all, deities and their personifications.
And what was the inspiration, the urge?
The historian D R Regmi put it succinctly, “The artist
applied himself to his task as a man of devotion who
cover story
Left
Sindoor Jatra,
Bhaktapur
Middle
A Newari
musician
Right page
Ranju Awale at
his sculptor
3. 38 vivacity magazine • june 2011 www.vivacitymagazines.com 39june 2011 • vivacity magazinewww.vivacitymagazines.com
most favored mediums maybe that made it easy to
carry them, transport them and make frequent use of
them in teaching religious precepts.
Congregationsofpeoplesharingthesamewaysoflife
and celebrations gave adaptability to the people and
with it a great tradition of religious tolerance. “They
gave birth to a culture nurturing animist practices,
orthodox Shaivism and ritual Mahayana Buddhism”
says Dilli Ram Regmi.
Lying on the trade route between India and Tibet,
Kathmandu in particular, ingested many external
influences. This influx sustained ethnic diversity and
gave a surge to cross generic arts. But not to overlook
that the serving of arts was also on distinct caste
based roles.
The caste based work particularly in the arts became
stronger during the Malla period, from the thirteenth
century onwards. The traditional side of arts and
artists has been influenced by these demarcations,
and inspiration has often sprung from the pride in the
lineage of the artist.
Distinctions are evident in the same ethnic and
geographic spaces. For instance dance forms show
both Buddhist and Hindu traditions among the
Newars.TheHinduNewarcelebratethe Lakhedance,
a demon dance, the Budhhist newar - the Chariya
cover story
Royal patronage came to Nepalese arts
in a big way during the reign of the Malla
Kings. And with that came the impetus.
Dieties &
wooden masks
Below
Puppetry,
intangible heritage
Model: Soniya Sharma
Photographer: Rajiv Shrestha
Make up & Hair: Sophie
Location: Soaltee Crown Plaza
Wardrobe & Accessories: Neelima’s Studio, City Centre, 4011622
4. 41june 2011 • vivacity magazinewww.vivacitymagazines.com
Naritaya, a combination of worship, meditation
and performance. In the art of Painting, Thanka is
Tibetan, Paugha is the Newari. Similar parallels can
be drawn in many other aspects of social life.
Royal patronage came to Nepalese arts in a big way
during the reign of the Malla Kings. And with that
cametheimpetus.Artgotthestagetodisplayitself,no
longer just in temples but in magnificent palaces and
citysquares.Bytheendofthe15th
centurythedivision
of the valley into three independent kingdoms,
brought a sense of competition for the display of
artistic grandeur. Art got documented and preserved.
(Unfortunately, some experts believe many priceless
specimens of various art forms got lost in the very
recent past. Half of Kathmandu’s art work from the
last 2000 years, has been lost in the last 50.)
The craft of metal art which had almost disappeared
from India by the 13th
century due to the iconoclast
Muslim rulers not only got preserved in Nepal but
went on unimpaired in its own distinct craftsmanship.
The height of its skill is evident from the methods that
are still followed in the techniques. Cire perdue or ‘lost
wax’ method was being followed in Nepal more than
a thousand years ago. In the method, a wax model
is made into the required shape, coated with clay,
creating a cast. Wax is then melted and drained out
through a few holes in the cast, replaced with molten
metal. Finally the cast is broken and the shaped metal
embellished or coated. Metal work was most popular
in the Buddhist tradition of work therefore many
metal images of the Buddha proliferated at the time.
Art work in terracotta dates as far back as the 3rd
century AD. By the medieval period it reached an
outstanding level of perfection. Temples gave space
to the work, with narrative of Hindu epics as its
main subject. Such work got perfectly expressed as
nagbands, stretching around historical temples – the
gate way to Taleju temple in Hanuman Dhoka, the
Maya Devi temple in Patan are good examples.
Wood craft - Forte of the Newari artist. The skill is
visible not just in the form but the technique. No use of
nails or glue. Among thousands of incredible pieces the
strut images in courtyards of palaces and the temples of
Pasupati, and Changu Narayana are some of the best.
cover story
Top
A photographic
exhibition at
Mangal bazaar,
Patan
Below
An exquisitely
carved wooden
pillar at a Durbar
building in Patan
Right page
Thanka artist,
Bikash Karki,
Immersed in
meticulous details
40 vivacity magazine • june 2011
6. 44 vivacity magazine • june 2011 www.vivacitymagazines.com 45june 2011 • vivacity magazinewww.vivacitymagazines.com
Perhaps the greatest show of international respect
to the Nepalese artist is preserved in the Yuan
history of China. Balbahu the architect, sculptor and
painter, who later came to be known as Arniko by
the Chinese, was summoned to Tibet at the request
of the Emperor Kubali Khan in 1246 AD. He led a
delegation of eighty artists to carry out architectural
work. Besides work in Tibet, the white pagoda or the
Pai Ta Sze in Beijing stands as one of the great works
of Arniko. Another of his famous work is the Archway
of Yungtang. The artist lived and died in China, and
during his lifetime was honored by the title of “Duke
of Liang”, by the Chinese Emperor. In 2010, the
Chinese-American actor Robert Lin, even brought up
the subject of making a movie on Arniko.
The Pagoda style of building which spread from
ChinatootherpartsoftheworldisindeedaNepalese
invention. “Now we have definite information from
the Chinese sources, of the style to have travelled
from Nepal to China and other countries are
acceptable. It was during the seventh century that
the advent was made by this style into Tibet mainly
through Nepalese efforts”, writes D R Regmi in his
book, ‘Ancient Nepal’.
Contemporary
The simplest definition of contemporary art would
be which mirrors contemporary society and gives
creative meaning of living in it. As a precursor to
contemporaryartinNepal,thefirstwesterninfluence
came under the Rana rulers. Jang Bahadur Rana
during his visit to England took along the Newari
artist Bhaju Man, and established the importance
of not just the Nepali artists, but the preference of
incorporating western style into the arts. This was not
justlimitedtoneoclassicalVictorianarchitecture,but
from furniture to fashion everything had anglophile
preferences.
Paintings,likearchitecture,sawamixofthemedieval,
religious and western themes during the Rana rule.
Deities and mandalas gave way to regal portraits - a
desire of the rulers for palace wall hangings. The first
official exhibition of an individual artist in Nepal -
Chandra Man Maskey’s - was held in 1928 and the
motivational character of contemporary art forms
began to show a shift from fiefdoms of patronage
to personal expressions that spoke out for the artist
itself.
Contemporary art is radically different from more
traditional art values in the sense that it includes
expressions and forms that are globally motivated
in themes, ingesting traditional, contemporary and
technological techniques; it can often be deliberately
unconventional taking advantage of a much wider
and instant audience.
Left
Embellishing
Monasteries at
Lumbini
cover story
contemporary and technological techniques
One big advantage of contemporary art is the
physical and cyber space it gets. Art galleries and On-
line platforms have changed the way art is displayed,
appreciated, reviewed and even sold.
Dwindling physical spaces in galleries and the
costs of holding onto a space might have the right
answer on-line. As an example of interconnectivity
– one happened in Janurary 2011, an on line art fair
called ‘View in Private’, VIP, it had about 8 million
viewings from over 146 countries, and included 140
prestigious art galleries! And an artist can always
create one’s own site
Radical ?
Interestingly, the same neighborhood where the
scrutinizing eyes of an artist draws the devotional
Contemporary art is radically different from
more traditional art values in the sense that it
includes expressions and forms that are globally
motivated in themes, ingesting traditional,
pictorial sequence of Buddhist deities on a Thanka
painting, also houses the insistent buzz of a precision
tattoo machine, which delicately drills dyes into
the human skin, drawing icons and patterns from
human skulls to angelic wings. Taking the analogy
further the symbols of tattoos can be tantric codes,
Maithili art, medieval esoteric secrets or seductive
infringements on erogenous zones of the human
body. A convergence of not just icons, but eclectic
arts & attitudes too. The contemporary has better
freedom than the traditional.
April 2011 saw the hosting of the Nepal Tattoo
Convention, the first ever international convention
of its kind in Nepal. An interesting example of
the so called radical art form in the land of ancient
conventional heritage.
7. 46 vivacity magazine • june 2011 www.vivacitymagazines.com
Time magazine, way back in 1970, reported - “As
an art, tattoos have been traced back 4,000 years
to the Egyptians.” In contemporary times “they
have adorned the arms and chests of sailors,
roustabouts and construction workers. Now, after
a decade or two of decline, tattoos are enjoying a
renaissance. They have become the vogue of the
counterculture.”
But the fact is tattooing has been a part of many
ethnicculturesinNepalsincecenturies,particularly
theTharus,andtosomeextenttheNewars.Cultural
organizations as UNESCO too have recognized
their cultural presence among sections of Nepalese
society.
Contemporary art in Nepal as elsewhere globally,
is not just limited to the conventional art forms.
Galleries in Kathmandu alone are witness to works
of many budding and seasoned artists showing work
from traditional to modernist and post Modernist.
Be it photography, multimedia or installation art
forms, there is a platform for exchange, criticism and
appreciation.
cover story
Tattooing,
esoteric
inspirations