“Mana Dir” derives from the Sanskrit words “mana” (inner self) and “dir” (a place), serves as a gateway to my inner worlds, much like a personal temple, or mandir, that houses my spirit. This body of work is both a reflection of my transformation and an exploration of the sacred spaces within.

Through my work, I explore the notion that every inanimate object and animate being possesses a spirit, sharing our world and weaving their energies into our lives. From the shoes we wear to the animals we admire, the stools we sit on to the insects around us, each entity pulses with an unseen presence. My art reflects this animistic worldview, bringing together respect for these spirits with a reverence for the world’s divine energies.

Cartoons and animated movies are an important source of inspiration for me— their imaginative randomness and visual energy are the foundation of my artistic practice. In my ceramic sculptures, I experiment with different forms and styles, referencing and cherishing playfulness, blending colorful and animated ideas from contemporary pop culture with traditional Nepalese cultural aspects.

As we grow older, we often lose touch with the carefree, imaginative spirit of childhood. Through my work, I aim to rekindle that sense of positivity, inviting viewers into a space where wonder and playfulness reign. Mana Dir is an invitation to step into this temple of inner worlds, to revisit and to connect with a joyful perspective.

This series of work were created for the thesis show for MFA at Alfred University, New York, USA.