Kala Salon presents ‘Roots & Blooms’, a solo art exhibition by contemporary artist Shivangini Rana, until July 7. Following the theme of abstract expressionism, the artist has created 72 pieces that connect with her personal emotions.

The style of art originated in New York between the 1940s and 1950s, when artists began using their raw, unfiltered emotions as the foundation of their work.

Rana has also experimented with Pashmina and silk shawls as part of her craft, in addition to the conventional method of canvas paintings. Abstract designs imprinted on fabrics have turned her work into distinctive, collectable art. This sort of diversification in art is a testament to Rana’s commitment to pushing her creative boundaries.

“Sometimes my work emerges from happiness, sometimes from longing, and often from the beautiful uncertainty that exists between the two,” reads the artist’s statement.

For her, abstraction is more than just showcasing a style; it's a way to convey and share her emotions with the world.

In contrast to the popular belief that abstract art can be done by anyone, the curator of the exhibition, Sophia L Pande, thinks otherwise, “Abstract expressionism is as much an exercise in restraint as it is one of emotion, where craft wars with creativity to produce a work of art," noting that the layers and figurative symbols can only come from an intentional practice.

Where: Kala Salon, Thamel, Kathmandu

When: Until July 12

Time: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm (Mondays only by appointment)

Entry: Free