Kathmandu Valley can be taken as a living museum. You will find the lives of people being intimately involved in the heritage. Patan, the city of arts, is no exception. From the festivals to daily rituals, every aspect of living in Patan is being involved in arts through performances, crafts, murals, and music. But if you are seeking for some contemporary art, then these are the galleries and art centers you need to visit, right in Patan.
- Image Ark, Kulhima
Image Ark is a creative studio with its own contemporary art gallery which hosts exhibitions of artists both local and international in Kulimha of Patan. Home to various #MadeInNepal brands like Pia and Bottle to Beads, Image Ark welcomes guests who are interesting in learning as well as collaborating on bringing Nepali inspired designs, patterns, and products. They also organize The Art Market, a market for the artists of Kathmandu to showcase and sell their work, every alternative month. To know what they are up to, find them on facebook here
- Kaalo 101, Nagbahal
Opened recently, Kaalo. 101 is where western street art meets Patan’s ancient alleys. A transcultural artists’ collective, Kaalo 101 is an open creative space for artists acting as a gallery, workspace and creative hangout based in a traditional Newar house in Nagbahal Patan. From residency to exhibitions to discussions, Kaalo 101 is a happening place to know what the new and young artists of Kathmandu are upto. To learn about their next event, follow them here
- Park Gallery, Pulchowk
Park Galley was established in 1970 and can be taken as one of the pioneering galleries of Kathmandu. Started by artist Rama Nanda Joshi, the gallery today also hosts RN Joshi Museum, housing the founder’s work and artworks of his contemporaries like Laxman Shrestha, and promising young cotemporary artists of Nepal. To know if there’s an exhibition running while you’re here, check their facebook page out here.
- NexUs Culture Nepal, Bakhundole
NexUs Culture Nepal is a modern art and cultural center founded by art collective Lasanaa. It is a collaborative platform for art and activism, providing a safe space for creative, healing and inspiring activities for mind, body and soul. Besides exhibitions and artist talks, it conducts regular activities like film screenings, Open Mic Nights, Night Market, and collaborates with various artists for residencies and workshops. Learn about their next event/market by following them here.
On the other hand, if you are more of an artist (or at least want to try your hands at painting) than an observer, then House of Palette should be your place to go. Book a session and paint your day away in a canvas and take it home with you.