Between breath and surrender

The Kala Salon in Kathmandu is currently hosting 'Chirping of Restless Heart,' a compelling joint exhibition by Momin Pradhan and Sharmila Devi Tamang. This is not merely a display of art; it is an immersive environment that draws the audience into an unresolved dialogue between the artists' inner worlds and the external environment. The exhibition masterfully uses elements like leaves, yarn, birds, and beds to construct a space that feels both intimate and expansive.

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chirping refers to both the sound of a bird and the sound of a disturbed mind—something both outside and inside.

Pradhan's installation, 'It's Too Early to Fall Asleep,' is a deeply personal exploration of his struggle with sleep apnea, translating a physical condition into a profound metaphor for mortality. The rumpled mattress, enveloped by withered leaves, starkly contrasts with the vibrant, handmade lokta paper leaves that symbolize longing for life. This juxtaposition creates a palpable tension, a feeling of being caught between the ideal and the harsh reality of entropy, making the audience an active participant in this emotional landscape. The rustling of leaves underfoot mimics shallow breathing, amplifying the sense of unease.

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sleep does not always fall as a burden. It sometimes falls as a weight.

Tamang complements Pradhan's introspective work with her outward-looking perspective on urban ecology. Her paintings and mixed-media pieces capture the quiet existence of birds within the concrete jungle, illustrating their displacement and the city's indifference. While Pradhan delves into the internal struggle of a single body, Tamang expands the narrative to the city's forgotten inhabitants. Her work serves as a poignant reminder of the natural world's presence and vulnerability amidst urban development, a theme that resonates deeply in a rapidly developing Kathmandu.

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he is resisting the fall and tries to stay awake, for there is so much to see, to learn, to do

Together, Pradhan and Tamang offer a powerful commentary on existence, time, and the human condition. 'Chirping of Restless Heart' is a testament to the artists' ability to translate complex emotions and societal observations into a tangible, thought-provoking experience. It is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary Nepali art that challenges perceptions and invites deep reflection.

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In the city, the bird, once a symbol of fre