Mustang Festa: Celebrating Art and Heritage at Taragaon Next, Kathmandu, 2024

CURATORIAL NOTE

By Davu Gallery,

Welcome to the "Mustang Fiesta Bringing Mustang to Kathmandu" diligently organized by the Mustang Welfare Trust. We are delighted to present an array of artistic expressions from local talents in Mustang, spanning from traditional Thangka paintings to picturesque landscapes and contemporary digital art.

The primary objective of this exhibition at Taragaon Next is to champion and celebrate the

artistic community in Mustang, offering a platform to showcase their diverse skills. The curated

collection is designed to encapsulate the cultural identity of Mustang, reflecting both traditional art forms and innovative contemporary approaches.

As you peruse the exhibition, each artwork narrates a unique story. Traditional Thangka

paintings, steeped in familial legacies, provide a glimpse into the rich historical tapestry of the

region. The landscape artworks serve as visual tributes to the distinctive topography of

Mustang, while the inclusion of digital art represents a harmonious fusion of tradition and

modernity.

Beyond traditional canvases, this exhibition features a fascinating exploration of daily life objects as a mirror to draw the silhouette of Mustang. From common utensils to textiles, these items serve as unconventional canvases, demonstrating the artistic ingenuity of Mustang's creators. In addition to the show at Taragaon Next, we are extending the celebration to Kathmandu. A satellite event exhibits selected pieces, bridging geographical distances and ensuring that the spirit of Mustang's artistry resonates with a broader audience.

We invite you to immerse yourself in the "Mustang Fiesta Bringing Mustang to Kathmandu." This gathering not only applauds the talent of our local artists but also pays homage to the enduring cultural heritage that continues to inspire and evolve. Through this exhibition, we hope to convey that the artistic legacy of Mustang is not confined to the past but remains a vibrant and integral part of our contemporary and future narratives.