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One of the most celebrated artists of Nepal is Lain Singh Bangdel, known for his pioneering contributions to the modern art movement in the country.
Born in 1919 in Bhutan, Bangdel grew up in Darjeeling, India, where he was exposed to the rich cultural heritage of Nepal through his family's connections. He studied at the prestigious Santiniketan University, where he was mentored by Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate poet and artist.
In the 1940s, Bangdel moved to Kathmandu, Nepal, and began to explore the traditional art forms of the country, such as thangka painting and Newari woodcarving. However, he was also deeply influenced by the modernist movements in Europe and America, and he sought to create a fusion of traditional and modern styles in his own work.
Bangdel's art is characterized by bold colors, simplified forms, and a strong sense of design. He often depicted mythological and religious themes, but he also tackled contemporary social and political issues, such as the impact of modernization on traditional ways of life. His work has been exhibited in major museums and galleries around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
In addition to his artistic achievements, Bangdel was also a dedicated scholar and educator. He played a key role in establishing the Department of Fine Arts at Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu, and he wrote extensively on Nepali art and culture. He was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri award by the government of India in 1971, and he is widely regarded as a national treasure in Nepal.
Lain Singh Bangdel passed away in 2002, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of artists in Nepal and beyond