How This Artist Brought Nepali Art to the World Stage at the 59th Venice Biennale

This year marks the first time Nepal is participating in the Venice Biennale, which opened in April. It exhibits the works of Nepali artist Tsherin Sherpa—here, he tells Tatler how he brought the art of his native country to the landmark event.

Nepal made its debut at 59th Venice Biennale—the first time the country is participating in the illustrious international cultural exhibition.

Helming the debut is Nepali artist Tsherin Sherpa, who is known for his work in the traditional Tibetan artform of thangka painting, featuring illustrations of a Buddhist deity on paper or cotton. Sherpa also often incorporates pop culture references in his work.

The artist’s creations are now on display at the Venice Biennale’s Nepal Pavilion in an exhibition titled Tales of Muted Spirits—Dispersed Threads—Twisted Shangri-La. He hopes the pavilion will challenge the image of Nepal as a “serene and secluded Shangri-la, static in its ideas and lifestyle”, he says—and instead showcase what else the country, and its art scene, have to offer.