A printmaker’s tribute to Bhagwan Bahal

Gallery 108 in Kathmandu is proud to present 'Impressions of Bhagwan Bahal,' a captivating solo exhibition by the talented visual artist Samjhana Rajbhandari. This collection of woodcut prints offers a deeply personal and evocative journey into Rajbhandari's connection with the sacred Bhagwan Bahal monastic complex.

Rajbhandari, a Kathmandu native known for her work in painting and printmaking, draws profound inspiration from her nostalgic childhood memories. Her art explores the rituals, deities, and the inherent sense of belonging she experienced within the monastic grounds. The exhibition beautifully captures the essence of these formative years, including recollections of the imposing statue of Sigha Santha Bahu and the serene glow of oil lamps during festivals.

This exhibition is a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage and artistic devotion. Woodcut printmaking, a painstaking yet rewarding art form, is employed by Rajbhandari to meticulously carve her visions into wood. The decision to present these powerful artworks as postal stamps is a particularly poignant touch, serving as a symbol of respect for Bhagwan Bahal and a celebration of Nepal's rich cultural tapestry. We invite all to experience this unique blend of personal history and artistic expression.

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'Impressions of Bhagwan Bahal' is an exhibition engendered from nostalgic childhood memories, spent partaking in the rituals and festivals, as well as playing with my cousins in the Bhagwan Bahal monastic complex. I recall the big statue of Sigha Santha Bahu, who enlarged the construction of the complex to what we know of it today and the beautiful oil lamps lit during Sithi Nakha around the premises of the monastery.