Reimagined roots

A new generation of Nepali artists is exploring bold narratives and experimental themes, pushing boundaries, and redefining societal conventions. 

That could be one perspective on the exhibition ‘I Am Rooted, But I Flow’ at Takpa Gallery. Curated by Pratima Thakali, it showcases works by eight female artists who explore the interplay between identity, culture, and personal evolution.

Artists Anmari Tamang, Kripa Shakya, Kripa Tuladhar, Krisha Tamrakar, Pooja Duwal, Priyanka Singh Maharjan, Sony Rai, and Sumitra Baral bring together diverse perspectives that challenge traditional narratives and invite a fresh thinking of Nepal’s cultural landscape.

These emerging female artists compel us to contemplate the evolution of identity, where tradition and transformation coexist in an ever-shifting cultural terrain. The title, drawn from Virginia Woolf’s The Waves, reflects the core theme: the balance between the stability of our roots and the fluidity of our evolving selves.

Krisha Tamrakar co-director of Artudio draws inspiration from her hometown of Patan, and her fascination with human spaces. Familiar landmarks are disappearing, a theme that deeply influences her work through her series of Between Colors and Spaces.

“Traditional brass utensils have begun to blend seamlessly with modern, colourful clothing in my neighbourhood,” she says, explaining her Between Colors and Spaces XXI.

Tamrakar notes how metal brass utensil shops that once lined the streets have now been replaced by clothing and shoe stores, which also makes us ponder about the effects of rising consumerism.

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Tamrakar believes contemporary art is essential because it allows her to express herself in the present while providing a lens for future reflection. Despite the surrealist images in her work, she thinks the local community will be able to relate to it as her art integrates everyday aspects of their lives.

The founder of Artudio Kailash K Shrestha reflects on the inspiration behind his space in 2010: “Back then, there were no accessible platforms for local, young, and emerging artists. There was a lack of open spaces where artists could come together to collaborate, exchange ideas, inspire one another, and offer mutual support."

While Tamrakar thinks every artist’s work is valuable, she also acknowledges the underrepresentation of female artists in the contemporary art scene and encourages greater inclusion.

Read also: Amalgamation of Nepali art, Aayusha Pokharel

‘To All The Women Who Came Before Me’ by Priyanka Singh Maharjan is another artwork series that stands out. Using embroidery on fabric, she represents the often-overlooked and unacknowledged work of women, particularly mothers, and grandmothers, a role that is indispensable in society.

‘Amidst the Watts of Steam’ series by Pooja Duwal showcases a three-decade-long local momo shop, Na: pasa: in Bhaktapur. The ambience in which the food is made and consumed outweighs the food itself as it is more about the sense of familiarity and warmth that make customers inhabit the space.

Kripa Shakya and Sony Rai also incorporate unconventional mediums into their work. Shakya uses fabric, nails, and string along with other mixed media to represent shared experiences of interpersonal conflicts and acceptance, while Rai presents intricately woven threads through aquatint to find beauty in simplicity.

Sumitra Baral’s sculptures interpret fashion as not just an outward beauty but an expression of inner artistry and cultural heritage. Her art label reads, ‘Fashion is not just about attire; it is a symbol of identity, a definition of personality, and a living story of culture.’

‘I Am Rooted, But I Flow’ gives a voice to fluid, multifaceted experiences of how our identities are shaped by both deep-rooted traditions and the transformative forces of personal growth.

I Am Rooted, But I Flow

8 February - 8 March

Takpa Gallery