Himalayan Art Festival 2019
The third edition of the Himalayan Art Festival 2019 was held at the Nepal Art Council, Babar Mahal, from 29 September to 3rd October 2019. This year 
artworksfrom young generation were Open called and were selected to participate. The art festival directs itself to a more comprehensive and holistic approach towards the perception of contemporary Nepali art, presenting art, from 150 different artists, within a multitude of genres that includes; paintings, Paubha, sculptures, installations, photographs, print media, ceramic and performances. The exhibition was inaugurated on 29 September by Mr. Chiribabu Maharjan, Mayor of the Lalitpur Metropolitan City.
Additionally, a special feature from this festival to honor the master artist of Nepal each year-to celebrate his/her contributions in Nepali art field. For this year, senior artist Uttam Nepali was featured and honored for his dedication and contribution to enrich Nepali art.
The five-day long exhibition was made more lively and vibrant with the inclusion of various art activities. On the second day, 30 September the festival was followed by a musical performance by Salil Subedi and his story telling. The third day of 1 October came with an art talk/panel discussion program moderated by Swosti Kayastha Rajbhandari. The speakers of the first session were Dr. Abhi Subedi and Navindra Man Rajbhandari and the discussion topic was about the “Nepali Kala Chhetra ma Santhagat Pahalharu.” The second session’s speaker was Ujay Bajracharya, where he talked about the present situation of Paubha art.
The 2 October staged a live art performance by young artists coordinated by Bindu, space for artists and Kathak dance performance by students of Nirtya Aagan.The final day of 3 October had a ceramic art and firing workshop coordinated by Gopal Kalapremi Shrestha.
The event showcased works of representing a wide spectrum of artists-from young artists to well established acclaimed artists. In fact, it was organized as a broad platform for all possible Nepali creators regardless of their age or status whether they are a young upcoming artists or veteran.
By Asha Dangol