“My artistic practice explores the interconnected themes of nature, spirituality, mythology, and cultural memory. Inspired by Nepal's rich religious and folk traditions, I create paintings and prints that celebrate the relationship between people, their environment, and their cultural heritage. Growing up in Janakpur deeply shaped my artistic vision. The historic Janakpur–Jayanagar railway frequently appears in my work as a symbol of connection, movement, and the passage of time. I often combine sacred architecture, deities, worshippers, and elements of nature to reflect the spiritual and cultural landscape of Nepal. In recent years, my work has expanded into philosophical explorations of nature and mythology, incorporating motifs such as fish and underwater life to evoke ideas of continuity, transformation, and harmony. Through the layered textures of etching and viscosity printmaking, as well as vibrant painted cityscapes featuring landmarks such as Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath, I seek to preserve and reinterpret Nepal's cultural and natural heritage while creating a dialogue between tradition and contemporary experience.”
Uma Shankar Shah (1965, Janakpur, Nepal) is a renowned Nepali contemporary artist, printmaker, educator, and founder of Print Making Nepal, the country's first organization dedicated to promoting etching and printmaking through workshops, exhibitions, and artistic exchange. Widely recognized for his contributions to both visual arts and arts education, Shah has played a pivotal role in advancing printmaking practices in Nepal. Holding a Master's degree in Printmaking from Banaras Hindu University, Shah specializes in etching and viscosity printmaking. His artistic practice draws upon Nepali religious and folk traditions, mythology, nature, and cultural heritage, creating works that bridge historical narratives with contemporary concerns. Over the course of his career, Shah has participated in more than 70 international exhibitions and art events across Asia, Europe, and the United States, including major biennales, triennales, and museum exhibitions. His work has received numerous accolades, including the Best Etching Award at Art Fest Doral in 2013 and 2014, and First Prize at the Second Xuyuan Print Biennale in China. As an educator, Shah has served as Associate Professor and Lecturer at the Central Department of Fine Arts, Tribhuvan University, where he has taught painting, composition, and art history to hundreds of students. He was actively involved in the establishment and development of the Department of Fine Arts, contributing to curriculum design, academic planning, student programs, and international faculty collaborations. Throughout his career, he has mentored more than 500 students and organized over 20 student exhibitions and workshops, fostering the growth of emerging artists in Nepal and beyond. Shah continues to live and work in Nepal, where his artistic and educational contributions remain influential in shaping the country's contemporary art landscape. Read more
