Kathmandu, January 8
A three-day art exhibition celebrating the heritage of traditional stone spouts, known as Hitis, of the Kathmandu Valley will be held at Patan Museum, Lalitpur, from January 9 to 11.
According to a press statement released by E-Arts Nepal, titled the Hiti Art Exhibition, the event brings together art, culture, and heritage conservation through the works of contemporary Nepali artists, aiming to raise awareness about the historical, cultural, and functional importance of Hitis and the urgent need for their preservation.
It added that for centuries, Hitis have served as vital community water sources across the valley, while also carrying deep cultural, religious, and historical significance. However, many of these traditional water systems have disappeared or are at risk due to rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation, and long-standing neglect.
In response, E-Arts Nepal, the Rotary Club of Yala, and the Chiva Chaitya Organization (CCO), in collaboration with local community stakeholders, have launched a heritage preservation initiative focused on the sensitisation, restoration, and revival of Hitis to ensure their sustainability for future generations.
The exhibition features paintings by 20 contemporary Nepali artists, each interpreting the artistic, cultural, and historical essence of Hitis through diverse visual perspectives. The exhibition is intended to spark public dialogue and encourage collective responsibility toward safeguarding traditional water systems.
The exhibition will formally open on January 9, with an opening ceremony that includes a welcome address by Basanta Raj Shrestha of the Rotary Club of Yala. Hiti expert P.S. Joshi will speak as the special guest, while senior artist Kiran Manandhar will attend as the chief guest.
Participating artists include Asha Dangol, Bhairaj Maharjan, Bidhata KC, Binod Pradhan, Bishal Maharjan, Erina Tamrakar, Ishan Pariyar, Kripa Tuladhar, Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Krishna Lama, Muna Bhadel, Pradhumma Shrestha, Pradip K. Bajracharya, Pralistha Maharjan, Pramila Bajracharya, Puja Maharjan, Sagar Manandhar, Samjhana Rajbhandari, Shailee Rana, and Shreeju Shahi.
