Singular essence, multiple mediums

 The Nanee, a new hotel in Bhaktapur, is hosting an exhibition titled ‘Reinterpretation’ by five established artists.

                             photo: google image

A newly opened hotel in Bhaktapur, The Nanee, is currently showcasing an art exhibition by five artists. The themes of the artworks circle around nationality, fundamental rights and mental health. Titled ‘Reinterpretation’, the five artists aim to delve into interpreting everyday objects to gain a deeper understanding or find reinterpret new meanings.

From both entrances of the hotel, one can see the sizable installation of Manish Lal Shrestha, director of MCube Gallery and a popular visual artist. ‘Tatwa: The Element’ is an art installation inspired by the Nyatapola temple—the five-storied Siddhi Laxmi temple of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. His installation showcases the cycle of life in the form of a river. The work depicts the roots of existence (according to Hindu philosophy)—the Panchatatva: Water, air, fire, earth and space. It features symbols of time, the sun, the moon, a compass and even gravity.

Shrestha also has another piece of installation hung at The Nanee—a large coil of brass that hangs atop the entrance. Titled ‘The Eternal Knot’, it represents the concept of bringing one’s relationship with the universe to a higher level and, in turn, becoming connected to the existential roots as well as finding stability, bonding and love. The metallic coil has neither a beginning nor an end. It is a reinterpretation of the Ashtamangala, one of the eight auspicious symbols in Hinduism and Buddhism. There is also a mini silver version of the knot for sale.

Then follows the work of Kunti Shree Thapa, who has focused on the different complexities of the female form. Titled ‘Parallel Existence’, her artworks feature faceless figures donning traditional attire. These uncanny faces put forth and question the rigid notions of what defines a woman’s beauty. It also hints towards the materialistic and hyper-consuming nature of our society.

Sagar Manandhar’s glass engravings are placed in the restaurant area. Multiple glasses are meticulously placed throughout the wooden shelf, each etched with figurines—mainly animals.

Then come the pen and ink drawings by Sujan Dangol. His moderately sized artworks are called the ‘Asthamangala’ (as there are eight drawings). Parallels can be drawn to Dangol’s previous series called ‘A Tale Of A City’, where he drew highly detailed cityscapes of the valley—often featuring temples and spiritual forms.

Lastly, small wooden sculptures are hung about in the open space of the hotel. Titled ‘The Resting Puppets’, several tiny wooden puppets are hung together—their unmoving bodies lending an eerie yet interesting visual experience. The installation is created by Prakash Pun Magar, who’s an artist from Dang.

Where: The Nanee, Bhaktapur

When: Till May 21

Time: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Entry: Free

Contact: 9851170110