Object in Focus #1: Project 1336

Manish Lal Shrestha

Visual artist Manish Lal Shrestha created this 1336 metre long knitted woollen rope to represent the elevation of the Kathmandu valley from the Sea level. This installation work started as a part of 2017 Kathmandu Triennale as a community project, which included local women’s and youths, they all worked together to create the rope that is as tall as the elevation of the Valley, where we all dwell in.

This is just not a long rope but it also identifies us. It refers our existence in the valley and it tells us where we are actually standing and how important is our ground level. The installation work pushes us to look down to the ground but not to look up, for understanding the bond we have with the part of the earth while living our life. The use of vibrant colours in installation signifies our tradition, custom, culture and festivals.  Most of all it carries a greater message to the community and the society for working together to show respect and contribute as an individual and also as a community for the betterment, peace and prosperity of this valley.

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Project 1336 by Manish Lal Shrestha

Visual Artist Manish Lal Shrestha’s connection with fabric and textiles begun since his childhood. He feels very connected with these materials as he is deeply influenced by his mother, who was a textile artist. He has seen and learned the laborious method of making the knitted fabrics. He has also profoundly sensed the engagement of the women from the community, who supported his mother. He has witnessed how these beautiful and colourful threads transformed into a piece of art, made by his mother; as he recalls.

Manish believes the fabric provide us the warmth, it shares it warmness to all of us and it is always connected with us as a part of us. Manish has used fabric and thread in his previous works that he exhibited in home and abroad.