Rhizomes 2024; Celebrating Artistic Innovation and Heritage at Kathmandu University’s MFA Thesis Exhibition
The Rhizomes MFA thesis show-2024 was hosted by Kathmandu University, School of Arts, Department of Art and Design at the Nepal Art Council Gallery, Babarmahal, Kathmandu, on Monday, July 8, 2024, at 5:30 pm, with an exhibition running from July 9 to July 14, 2024.
This exhibition marked the culmination of two years of both academic and creative endeavors. The showcased works were diverse, reflecting the unique perspectives and interests of individual artists. Despite the differences in form and content, the pieces shared a rich interconnection of practices, skills, processes, and ideas, ranging from affective and emotional to scholarly and systematic, all aimed at expression, creation, and exploration.
Distinct from more academically focused Master of Arts programs, the Master of Fine Arts show emphasized individual artistic practices alongside scholarly pursuits. The exhibition featured a range of works, including hand-painted fashion, pashmina, jewelry designs, and cellulose lamps, captivating fashion enthusiasts.
"Buki" by Reejun Pradhan, dedicated to new mothers, captivated by traditional fashion from a young age, reimagines Newari dress by incorporating elements such as drapes, pleats, putula, janni, and floral prints into modern, breathable garments. Inspired by the vibrant Poinsettia (Lalupate in Nepali), this collection offers comfortable, smart-casual wear that empowers new mothers to confidently express themselves.
Another notable work was "KalpaPashmina" by Pooja Shrestha. As a digital textile designer, Pooja integrates traditional craft practices into modern designs and has spent the last decade using Galaincha software to create handmade rugs. Her MFA project involves developing technology for pashmina production, proposing an online marketplace to enhance collaboration between producers and buyers. KalpaPashmina enables users to visualize product details, reducing wastage and ensuring user-friendly technology accessible to those with minimal technical knowledge.