Temkemaiyung on canvas exhibition opens at Nepal Academy of Fine Arts

Kathmandu- The exhibition titled “Temkemaiyung on Canvas” began on Friday at the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, organized by the Department of Contemporary Painting.

The exhibition was inaugurated by the Chief Guest and National Assembly Member Jayanti Devi Rai. She stated that the exhibition plays an important role in introducing Bhojpur’s social, cultural, and natural identity. She also shared that while observing the artworks, she felt as if she had traveled to Bhojpur.

Academy Chancellor Naradmani Hartamchhali mentioned that art has traditionally been viewed as visual, philosophical, and cultural expression, and emphasized the need to connect it more deeply with philosophy in the present context. Member Secretary Devendra Kumar Kafle “Thumkeli” noted that the Academy has conducted various programs in more than 60 districts and over 180 local levels to promote, develop, and uplift art across the country.

Chairperson of the program and Head of the Department of Contemporary Painting, Sanjay Bantawa, said that Nepal is widely recognized for its natural beauty and cultural richness, and highlighted the importance of linking art with tourism and culture.

Former Minister S.P. Koirala appreciated the Academy’s work in the field of fine arts and spoke about its multidimensional role. Former Minister Hemraj Rai described the effort to promote Bhojpur through art as excellent. Academician Rameshnath Khanal added that the artworks displayed in the exhibition would further support tourism promotion.

Saroj Basnet, Chairperson of Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality, expressed his happiness, stating that art is a fundamental source of creativity and that capturing Temkemaiyung on canvas is a meaningful achievement. He also stated that the local government is committed to preserving, promoting, and developing intangible cultural heritage.

The exhibition features 42 artworks created during a workshop held in Bhojpur from Jestha 5 to 7, 2082, in collaboration between the Academy and Temkemaiyung Rural Municipality. Participating artists include Naradmani Hartamchhali, Sanjay Bantawa, Aruna Hingmang, Susma Shrestha, Sunita Rana, Shiva Changchha Rai, Binod Kumar Gupta, Bibek Mukarung, Bijen Rai, Bishnu Thapa, Bidyaman Tamang, Dhiraj Rai, Ganesh Lama, Kanchha Kaji Bhasima, Kishor Nakarmi, Mahendra Rai, Sagun Pokharel, Suman Shrestha, Tara Rai, Tilak Rai, and Yushoda Kumari Lamsal.

The exhibition will continue until Baisakh 14.

The event was attended by National Assembly Members Durga Gurung and Shrikrishna Adhikari, along with officials of the Academy, members of the Nepal Academy, Rajan Mukarung, President of Bhojpur Sewa Samaj Pasang Dorje Sherpa, President of Chomolungma UNESCO Society Haribansh Kirat, President of Kirat Rungmahang Society Navin Kumar Rai, as well as artists and journalists.