Life itself is so uncertain that individuals who are active and constantly moving can suddenly become motionless and take their last breath in a moment’s notice. This was the case for Shivata Upadhyay, the late daughter of artist Ragini Upadhyay, who passed away at the young age of 20, leaving her mother devastated with grief. Despite her sorrow, as an artist, Ragini Upadhyay found different ways to cope with her loss. Firstly, she expressed her emotions and sorrow through painting on canvas. Secondly, she established an NGO named ‘Shivata Love Foundation’ in memory of her daughter.
The foundation that artist Ragini Upadhyay established in 2016 has been aiding underprivileged children. “When I help these children, I feel as though I am helping my own daughter since I see her reflection in their faces,” expresses Ragini. As the NGO is a charitable organization, it relies on funds generated from the sale of her artwork, as well as contributions from selfless donors who support its daily operations.
The ongoing exhibition features artworks by both student and established artists such as SC Suman, Ragini Upadhyay, and Erina Tamrakar. Additionally, the exhibit showcases the works of up-and-coming artists who received scholarships from the Shivata Love Foundation.
One of the master Mithila artists, S.C Suman, is showcasing his artwork titled ‘God Lotus’ in the exhibition. This piece features different depictions of gods on the lotus petals. Suman is renowned for his skilled craftsmanship in Mithila painting, and his attention to detail and use of color is truly captivating. Meanwhile, artist Rukmani has a passion for women’s issues, which she often portrays through printmaking. For this exhibition, she has created an etching of Ganesh, showcasing her unique style of expressing her ideas.
For the exhibition, artist Ragini Upadhyay decided to explore various ideas and concepts. In her painting titled ‘The Buddha around Communication’, she draws a comparison between the ancient tradition of Buddha imparting his teachings with the image of the Dalai Lama speaking on a phone. The speed of communication in today’s world has become so rapid that individuals can instantly connect with people located anywhere in the world. The painting’s yellow background and monks’ attire create a lively image for the viewers. Another artist, Ekta Budhiya, showcases a black and white painting of a meditating woman. Only the Sindur and Tika are highlighted in red, making the piece quite striking in the exhibit. Artist Erina Tamrakar, who is famous for her painting series ‘The Third Eye’, features a unique painting for this particular exhibition.
Several students studying under artist Erina Tamrakar are showcasing their artwork in the exhibit as well. Artist Meena Newa, who often creates flower-themed pieces, has presented a striking artwork of a rose that appears lifelike. Binay Rimal has created a unique image of a Kumari holding the entire Earth in her hand, while a Buddha blowing a kiss sends colorful butterflies soaring. Meanwhile, artist Madhu Adhikari portrays the ‘Masks of Ashes’ with a pair of masks connected by a thin thread, set against a black and gray background. The piece is one of the standout artworks in the exhibition.
Shailee Rana, another talented artist in the exhibition, specializes in creating stunning portraits. In many of her paintings, she portrays a graceful, soothing female figure who is often a reflection of herself. In her latest artwork titled ‘White Lotus’, the subject is a female emerging from a meditative state, still lost in thought and holding a white lotus. Additionally, artist Anjali Tamang’s painting depicts a pensive lady whose face seems to be in mid-jump, displaying her third eye. This unique and intriguing piece is sure to captivate the audience.
The exhibition will run until April 28th at the MCube Chakupat Gallery. If you have not had the opportunity to visit yet, you are missing out on a fantastic experience.
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