Manish Harizon

Manish Harijan is a contemporary Nepali artist currently living in London. Born in 1985, he comes from a Dalit background, which has significantly influenced his artistic journey and themes.
Education and Early Career
Studied Fine Art at Kathmandu University, graduating with a BA in 2011
Completed residencies at Kathmandu Contemporary Art Center in 2012 and Centre for Culture and Development in Denmark in 2013
Pursued an MFA at Sheffield Hallam University (2018-2019), winning the Dianne Willcocks Lifelong Learning award
Artistic Style and Themes
Known for blending traditional Nepali art forms with contemporary global issues
Employs a technique he calls 'Thang-Su-Flat', inspired by Thangka painting and British Pop Art
Explores themes of cultural identity, social injustice, and the immigrant experience
Notable Works and Exhibitions
"The Rise of Collateral" (2012): His first solo exhibition at Siddhartha Art Gallery in Kathmandu, featuring controversial depictions of Hindu deities as superheroes
"The Untouchable Paradise" (Upcoming, October 2024): A solo exhibition exploring childhood memories and global issues
Controversy and Recognition
Faced significant backlash for his 2012 exhibition, including death threats and legal challenges
His work has been exhibited internationally, including in Copenhagen, London, New Delhi, Vienna, and The Hague
Manish Harijan's art serves as a powerful commentary on social and political issues, drawing from his personal experiences as a Dalit and his global perspective as an immigrant artist.