This time, the Mcube Gallery, situated on Mitra Road, Chakupat, is adorned with artworks crafted by both Nepalese and Korean artists. The exhibition serves as a bridge between these artists, symbolizing the connection between Nepal, a mountainous country, and Korea, a nation surrounded by the ocean. This showcase is the outcome of a two-day workshop held within the gallery premises. The convergence of these creative minds forms a visual symphony, depicting a shared journey of cultural exchange and artistic expression.
The exhibition acts as a canvas where cultural intricacies entwine, presenting a seamless fusion of Nepali and Korean artistic expressions. The two-day workshop served as a fertile ground for the exchange of ideas, techniques, and inspirations, nurturing a dynamic brainstorming session that echoes through the showcased pieces. Titled ‘Harmony: Mountain and Ocean,’ the exhibition conveys a profound metaphor. Mountains and oceans, symbolic realms of contrast, discover unity and equilibrium in this artistic endeavor. The artists’ strokes and hues reflect the peaks and depths of their imaginative minds, crafting a vibrant portrayal of diverse perspectives converging into a cohesive narrative.
More than a simple showcase of artworks, the exhibition emerges as a living testament to the transformative influence of collaboration. It cultivates a collective brainstorming, where the creative energies of both Nepali and Korean artists blend harmoniously, forming a visual dialogue that transcends cultural boundaries and nurtures a profound appreciation for the beauty derived from shared creativity.
Among the showcased artists, Pratima Thakali, a visual artist based in Kathmandu, delves into the subjectivity and significance of impermanence through her captivating works. In her piece titled ‘Unwanted Belongings,’ meticulously crafted from Plaster of Paris, Gypsum Bandage, and Salt, she intricately explores the habit of hoarding and its profound role in preserving tangible records of our experiences. The choice of materials adds a tactile dimension, underscoring the transitory nature of possessions and the complex relationship between attachment and impermanence.
Sushila Singh, specializing in composition, presents a thought-provoking perspective on self-love and teachings through her artwork titled ‘Conversation.’ Executed with ink and acrylic colors on canvas, Singh’s exploration of being both a woman and a human being enriches the narrative with layers of depth and introspection. The deliberate choice of mediums allows for a nuanced expression of her themes, with ink providing precision and acrylic colors contributing vibrancy to convey the multifaceted aspects of self-discovery and personal growth.
In both instances, these artists skillfully leverage their chosen materials and techniques to convey not just visual appeal but profound conceptual meanings. Thakali’s use of Plaster of Paris and Gypsum Bandage reflects the transient nature of possessions, while Singh’s selection of ink and acrylic colors enables a nuanced exploration of complex themes. As attendees engage with these artworks, they are invited to contemplate the deeper layers of impermanence, attachment, self-love, and personal growth, making the exhibition a rich tapestry of artistic expression and profound contemplation.
Suresh Maharjan, an artist characterized by a distinctive infusion of contemporary motifs, enriches the exhibition with his piece ‘Imagination Borders,’ rendered in acrylic on canvas. Through this artwork, Maharjan encourages contemplation on the boundless possibilities that exist beyond the constraints of certainty.
Rabindra Shrestha, a versatile artist with a multi-disciplinary approach, presents ‘Galabandi (Muffler)’ as part of the exhibition, crafted from Nepali coins made of aluminum. His involvement in collaborative line art projects and public installations underscores his conceptual approach, which centers around themes of humanity and connection.
Manish Lal Shrestha, a versatile visual artist with a multidimensional approach, introduces ‘Horizon,’ a composition crafted from glass, brass, and copper. Symbolizing a journey in equilibrium, this artwork encapsulates the essence of harmonious existence, inspiring a delightful exploration of thoughts.
Kim Jaewon, an alumnus of Seoul Art High School, presents ‘Ambrasion’ and ‘Kim Jaewon Harmony.’ Through various mediums, his artworks are inspired by memories of Nepal and the harmonization of artistic elements from both Nepal and Korea.
The exhibition also includes Kang Jangwon’s video installation, ‘Perhaps, Almost Everything…,’ exploring the origins of life, beginning in the ocean.
Additionally, Lee Tangyong’s kinetic art piece, ‘A-Gi-Yeo-Cha,’ offers an experiential insight into the vast stretches of time and memories associated with rowing a boat.
Koh Changsun’s installation, ‘Temporal Contemplation,’ using salt as a medium, reflects on the passage of time, providing a contemplative exploration of the profound nature of extended temporal dimensions.
Essentially, ‘Harmony: Mountain and Ocean’ surpasses the confines of traditional art exhibitions, encouraging viewers to interact with a blend of cultural expressions, varied perspectives, and the transformative influence of collaborative creativity.
The exhibition will be accessible until February 6, 2024, from 11 am to 7 pm.
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