Museum of Nepali Art: Thematic Presentations of Nepalese Art
Museum of Nepali Art occupies a unique position in the world of Nepali art showcasing traditional and contemporary works, mainly produced after the mid-19th century.
These art forms are a reflection of the country’s culture and its soul. Yet they are in danger of fading out in a fast-changing world.
Museum of Nepali Art is situated in the Karna Annex and showcases the masterpieces of Nepalese art both traditional and contemporary to a wider audience. With the aim to expand knowledge, interest, and awareness around these artistic disciplines.
Museum of Nepali Art presents the vibrant continuity in the production of art by exhibiting the work of newer generations, whose manifestations differ in form and content. Delving deeper into the artworks, we see a rich interplay of global styles binding seamlessly with local cultural contexts. This gives the art a character that is ‘Nepali’ -yet places Nepal art on a global platform.
The Kathmandu Valley has been a center of cultural heritage for thousands of years, spanning many dynasties and ‘schools of thought’, to receive its World Heritage Inscription in 1979. To date, most great works of Nepali art have been housed in private collections or a part of limited exhibitions. MONA seeks to break these barriers, by presenting masterpieces of art to a wider and all inclusive public.
The Museum of Nepali Art documents, researches, conserves and preserves the artistic heritage of the country with the aim to maintain and expand this identity. Thematic presentations of Nepalese art, both traditional and contemporary and sometimes both, will run as temporary exhibitions throughout the year to provide a vibrant Museum.
FOUNDER’S VISION
“ART, in its many forms; symbolizes our past; reflects our present, and inspires our future.”
Traditional and contemporary art balance each other. The first, mirroring faiths and traditions, where the foundations of our culture and way of life were embedded. The second, representing today’s philosophies, anxieties and dogmas.
Art is in a rapid whirlpool of evolution, revolution and experimentation. The modern era of digital influences and mass accessibility endangers individual expression, reduces artistic variances and thus makes our society somewhat monotonic.
Museum of Nepali Art was envisioned to give a prominent stage to Nepali artists, to showcase their expressions and geniuses. This platform intends to strengthen traditions, better understand our history, and pass this knowledge on to future generations, while introducing our non-comparative artistic forte to the world. Additionally, and more importantly, to exhibit these artistic marvels to the general public, so that such knowledge and skill would not be diminished in this world of chaos and singularity.
References
Kathmandu Guest House Group brochure
