Bhaktapur Inside and Out
De Tample Cafe, Bhaktapur, Nepal
May 12-13, 2023
Photographers’ Statement
This exhibit offers a unique blend of color and black-and-white photographs from the historic walled city of Bhaktapur and the Newari people who live there. The point of view combines photographs by a Bhaktapur resident, Amit Banmala, and a visitor from Tokyo, D. J. Hinman.
Literally known as the City of Devotees the ancient town of Bhaktapur once was the capital of Nepal for more than 300 years. Globally, Bhaktapur is also known as the Cultural Capital of Nepal. Centuries old historic temples and monuments, culturally rich people, unique traditional values, daily life activities, chanters performing ancient Hindu scripts and festivals make Bhaktapur more alive than other cities of Kathmandu valley. Many major festivals are celebrated here in this city.
In this exhibition, Amit Banmala’s photographs are more based on major festivals, cultures and lifestyle of Bhaktapur City with conceptual skills. D. J. Hinman focuses on three sub-themes: chanters, social life and daily life. From early morning until evening, he and Amit have searched deep into Nepali culture.
Our goal in this exhibit is to create a collective portrait of Bhaktapur that reflects the points of view of both a resident of, and a visitor to, the city.