“They Are Poor But Happy…” The Politics of Kathmandu Art

Manjushree Thapa is the author of eight books of fiction and nonfiction, and has produced several works of literary translation. Her essays and editorials have appeared in the New York Times, the London Review of Books, the Globe and Mail and elsewhere. Her latest novel is All of Us in Our Own Lives.

Published on

The portraiture and landscapes in Kathmandu galleries reflect an idealised Nepal that does not exist. Art must evolve to speak for all Nepalis and not just for its elite urban patrons.

What does it mean when a community's artwork fails to represent the concerns of the community? The offerings in Kathmandu's museums and galleries, and the traditionally made art in the stores, depict only serenity, beauty and harmony. But a day in Kathmandu will contradict the guide-book description of Nepal and Nepalis as peaceful and peace-loving. In whose interest is it to have institutions display nostalgic, even dishonest, art?

Loading content, please wait...
Himal Southasian
www.himalmag.com