In this joint exhibition by Kapil Mani Dixit and Khatri, their art is an attempt to give voice and provide new insights to the issues and rights of HIV-affected and marginalized groups, such as female sex workers, drug users and transgenders in the society.
The artists have used nudity as the motif for this series, which they say is the ultimate form of expression as it is the ultimate acceptance of oneself.
“As nudity bears out our identity without any cover-ups, metaphorically we want the issues of HIV/AIDS, homosexuality, female sex workers and other issues that are considered taboo by our society to come out in open,” said Khatri.
All the paintings were done after one-on-one talks and consultations with the marginalized groups after which some participants also volunteered to be the models for their art.
“After talking to the people, it was easier to paint and try to depict their sentiments in the paintings,” said Dixit.
Red and black hues once more dominate Dixit’s canvases as Khatri also accompanies him in the color choice for the series. Khatri believes that the intense colors will add to the needed impact that the exhibit hopes to generate.
Organized by FAITH (Friends Affeted And Infected Together in Hand) and Corporate Social Consortium (CSC) during the week of “Observation of Solidarity against HIV,” the art event on December 3 at Hotel Yak & Yeti with tickets priced at Rs 3,500 will also include a digital video art presentation by 21 Films and Media Act, and a theatrical art by the Mandala Theatre group.
“With the proceeds from the event, FAITH Foundation will conduct entrepreneurship-based activities to financially help the marginalized group,” Miraz Roshan, executive director of FAITH, said at the conference.
The exhibition will be open for public viewing at Nepal Art Council, Babar Mahal, from December 4 to December 10.
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