Murals are unlike other paintings, they bring art to the public sphere and do not have selected spectatorship. Its eye-catching, vibrant and eclectic art charms the city and passersby of all walks of life and consciously or subconsciously can have a dramatic impact on their attitudes when they are added to areas where people live and work. It can also work as an escape from the mundane walls that we are so accustomed to. Murals bring a positive change and aesthetic quality in society. In Nepal however, mural art is a much-neglected form of art. Asides from myriads of traditional architecture and the hills surrounding it, murals should also be an integral part of the city. However, many local and international artists have recently collaborated to enhance the city with mural arts, which also encourages local artistic talent.
Rise above, gather your strength and fly to the heavens. (Jawalakhel, Lalitpur)
Always keep an eye open, you may find the silver lining even in the smallest of things. (Pimbahal, Lalitpur)
Spread your wings and let go of the demons inside you. (Jawalakhel, Lalitpur)
Work hard till your last breath.(Kupondole, Lalitpur) Let nothing and no-one bind your heart and soul. (Jawalakhel, Lalitpur)
This art piece consists of a juxtapositon of different colours and elephants which embodies intelligence and strength in the Nepali culture.(Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur)
It's an abstract art piece, welcoming you to the city 'KTM' or Kathmandu. (Jawalakhel, Lalitpur)
Like all street art, murals in Kathmandu are ephemeral. Some of it is painted illegally, some on walls that are later demolished or repurposed or simply painted over. But, that’s the fun of street art. You never know how long it’s going to be there. So, if you spot something you like the look of during your travels, take pictures while you can.
Text: Shubham K.C.
Photos: Sandesh Shrestha
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