Chairperson of the National Assembly, Narayan Prasad Dahal, has emphasized that Nepal can take a significant leap in development by connecting its rich art and cultural heritage with the tourism industry. Speaking during his visit to the ongoing National Fine Arts Exhibition-2025 at the Nepal Art Council in Naxal on Sunday, Dahal called for strategic efforts to promote the country’s diverse artistic traditions as a powerful tool for tourism growth.
Leveraging Cultural Richness for Economic Development
During his interaction at the exhibition, Chairperson Dahal expressed his admiration for the event, which showcases 650 paintings created by 605 artists representing 65 districts across all seven provinces of Nepal. He praised the exhibition as a remarkable display of Nepal’s vast artistic talent and cultural diversity, noting that such platforms not only preserve heritage but also create opportunities for income generation and employment.
“This exhibition brings together Nepal’s vibrant artworks and artistic talent under one roof. It is a powerful reminder of the depth of our cultural wealth,” he said. He urged all stakeholders to recognize and utilize the value of both tangible and intangible heritages in driving economic activities and attracting global attention.
National Fine Arts Exhibition as a Cultural Bridge
Organized annually, the National Fine Arts Exhibition serves as a central platform for artists from various corners of the country to present their works to a broader audience. The 2025 edition features paintings, sculptures, and mixed media artworks reflecting Nepal’s multifaceted social, cultural, and ethnic narratives.
What sets this year’s exhibition apart is the inclusion of indigenous and ethnic artistic expressions, such as those from the Tharu, Awadhi, Mithila, Newar, Parbate, Bhojpuri, Tamang, Raute, Dom, and Rai communities. These artworks capture the daily lives, traditional values, spiritual beliefs, and folk tales of diverse Nepali societies, offering a unique glimpse into Nepal’s cultural landscape.
Progress and Growth Compared to Previous Years
Chairperson Dahal, who had also visited last year’s exhibition, acknowledged a marked improvement in both quality and diversity of the art presented this year. “Compared to last year, there is a visible qualitative growth in the artistic expressions, presentation, and thematic depth. This is a positive sign that our artists are evolving and receiving the space they need to flourish,” he observed.
He also lauded the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts and other organizing bodies for creating a space that allows underrepresented communities and emerging artists to showcase their works alongside established names in the art world.
Need for Promotion, Preservation, and Public Awareness
Dahal stressed the importance of proper promotion, documentation, and management of all types of heritage, including fine arts, to ensure their longevity and their contribution to national identity and the economy.
“Art is not just a medium of expression, it’s an asset that can generate revenue, foster creativity, and build international bridges. We must educate every citizen about its importance and support its growth,” he said. He pledged his full commitment, as National Assembly Chairperson, to advocate for policies and resources that support the promotion and preservation of Nepal’s fine arts and cultural heritage.
Exhibition Open Until June 14
The National Fine Arts Exhibition-2025 will continue until June 14 at the Nepal Art Council in Naxal. Art lovers, tourists, students, and culture enthusiasts are encouraged to visit and witness the diversity of Nepali art under one roof. The exhibition also offers a learning opportunity for aspiring artists and cultural researchers to delve into Nepal’s deep-rooted yet evolving creative traditions.
With Nepal increasingly looking to diversify its tourism offerings beyond mountains and natural beauty, events like this play a crucial role in positioning the country as a hub for cultural and heritage tourism. The integration of art, culture, and tourism, as emphasized by Dahal, could open new avenues for sustainable development and global cultural exchange.
The National Fine Arts Exhibition 2025 not only showcases Nepal’s immense artistic heritage but also opens up discussions on the role of culture in national development. As Chairperson Dahal aptly highlighted, connecting art and culture with tourism can elevate Nepal’s global image while preserving the country’s unique identity. With active participation and proper promotion, such exhibitions have the potential to transform how the world sees Nepal, not just as a land of mountains, but also as a land of masterpieces.
