Artists dwell in a unique realm, perceiving and experiencing reality in ways that differ from most people. They find visions in words and often translate these into imageries. Muna Bhadel is one such artist, having received the Australian Himalayan Foundation Art Award. Over time, her work has evolved from the ordinary to the extraordinary, blending the rich traditions of Newar culture with the Rajasthani style of painting. From August 18th to September 18th, she will be exhibiting her “Silent Whispers” at the Siddhartha Art Gallery, Baber Mahal, as an awardee of the Australian Himalayan Foundation Art Award.
“The Silent Whispers” on display at the gallery feature four grandmothers captured in various gestures and postures. At times, they appear deep in thought, while at other moments, they seem to be performing Newari rituals and celebrations, all portrayed with a somber, reflective mood.
In 2024, Nepal has experienced significant shifts in its culture and practices, with women, in particular, embracing many changes in the name of fashion under the banner of modernity. However, the grandmothers depicted on Muna’s canvases embody a certain timelessness, standing as symbols of unchanging tradition amidst this evolving landscape.
Muna Bhadel’s paintings are deeply influenced by Indian art traditions, particularly the Rajasthani, Pahari, and Mughal schools. She skillfully weaves layers of history into her work, reflecting not only the evolution of Nepali painting but also its rich legacy and her personal connection to it. Despite recently becoming a mother, her artistic journey remains unwavering. In 2023, she showcased her art at the Dalai La Gallery in Thamel in an exhibition titled “Co-Relation Between Us,” which featured her sister in various moods and poses. This exhibition was highly praised by the art community for its depth and emotional resonance.
In the current exhibition, Muna Bhadel masterfully captures long-practiced traditions and cultural heritage through her paintings. One striking piece portrays the celebration of her grandmother’s Janku, a significant Newari ritual observed when a person reaches the age of 77 years, 7 months, and 7 days. This painting offers a profound yet understated depiction of this rich cultural milestone, highlighting the depth and continuity of Newari traditions. Through her work, Muna brings to life the essence of these customs, rendering them both accessible and deeply resonant for the viewer.
Similarly, another painting in the exhibition depicts the traditional practice of serving local beverages to kings and queens of bygone eras. This piece, like many in the collection, draws inspiration from the centuries-old Newari painting style known as Bilampau, which historically illustrated the tales of gods, goddesses, and royalty. The dominant hues in Muna Bhadel’s work, particularly the rich reds, echo this ancient tradition, imbuing her paintings with a sense of timelessness and reverence for the past. Through these vibrant tones and historical references, her art not only revives but also honors the cultural heritage of the Newar people.
During the inauguration of the exhibition, Margie Thomas, the founder of the Australian Himalayan Foundation Art Award, shared the heartfelt origins of the award. She explained that it was established on December 8th in loving memory of her friend, Murray Zanoni, who had visited and sketched the Himalayas on numerous occasions. To honor his legacy, Margie, in collaboration with Sangeeta Thapa, the Director of Siddhartha Art Gallery, selects, interviews, and grants the award to two promising young Nepali artists each year. Over time, the recipients of this award have grown to become well-established figures in the art world, continuing to contribute significantly to the field. During the inauguration of the exhibition itself, the founder of the Australian Himalyan Foundation Art Award, Margie Thomas stated that this award was established in 8th of December, 2008 in the loving memory of her friend Murray Zanoni who had visited and sketched the Himalayas in multiple occasions. Thus in his memory, she, along with the Director of Siddhartha Art Gallery, Sangeeta Thapa, select, interview and grant award to two promising young Nepalese artists every year. So far, the artists who have already received the awards have already become an established artists and are doing well in the field of art.
The exhibition runs until September 18th, and if you’re in Kathmandu and have a passion for art, a visit to Siddhartha Art Gallery is a must. This is not only an opportunity to immerse yourself in Muna Bhadel’s captivating work but also a chance to meet the artist herself during the exhibition period. The gallery offers free entry, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all who appreciate the beauty and depth of Nepali art.
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