Philadelphia, PA – Twelve Gates Arts returns with a group exhibition of works by Nepali artists. “Namaste Nepal” will run from September 6 - October 12, 2013 with an opening reception First Friday, September 6 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The exhibition was curated by artist and educator, Kathryn Hagy. Six artists are featured in the show: Asha Dangol, Hitman Gurung, Mekh Limbu, Supriya Manandhar, Ashmina Ranjit, and Binod Shrestha. All grew up or came of age during the political turmoil existing in Nepal since the 1990s.

Most, if not all, participated in varied demonstrations to bring about change, and their work explores socio-political themes ranging from corruption, environmental degradation and the effects of violence, to the changing role of women and the impact of modernism on tradition. Through the works, we see how Nepal's arts flourish under political and social pressure as artists confront censorship or lack of financial/community support. Kathryn Hagy selected the works during her time investigating the contemporary art scene in Kathmandu as a Fulbright Senior Scholar in 2010-2011.