To mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Japan, an exhibition of Japanese artist Tsuneyo Kaneda, jointly organised by Nepal Lalit Kala Pragya-Pratishthan and Sirjana College of Fine Arts, began on Wednesday, April 15.

The exhibit was inaugurated by Yasuharu SHINTO, deputy chief of mission of the Embassy of Japan to Nepal.

Born in 1926, Kaneda dedicated her life to art and education. Her work reflects a significant engagement with South Asian culture, specifically of Kolkata, Islamabad and Kathmandu. Her sensitivity to cultural nuance is evident in her practice, projecting careful observation and a conscious effort to represent them authentically.

Celebrating her birth centenary—100th birth anniversary year, her son, Ktakuya, initiated the exhibition to honour her legacy. Ktakuya notes that, 50 years ago, in 1979, Kaneda held her exhibition at the same place in Nepal Academy of Fine Arts. Therefore, this ongoing initiative is, as he calls it, ‘very special’ to him.

“She came to Nepal quite a lot,” Ktakuya told the Post. “She also made a picture book to introduce Nepali culture to Japanese children.”

He adds that Kaneda observed Nepali culture very carefully, noting that she didn’t want to misunderstand the traditions.

Marking the 70th anniversary of Japan and Nepal’s diplomatic relationship, Tsuneyo Kaneda’s exhibition at Arniko Gallery stands as a cultural bridge.

Tsuneyo Kaneda

When: April 15 to 20

Where: Arniko Gallery, Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, Naxal

Time: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

Entry: Free