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Nepal, encompassing the folded mountain valleys and peaks of the Himalaya, is home to a tremendous diversity of peoples, cultures, and artistic traditions.  In ancient walled cities and within sacred landscapes, our journey takes us into the majestic creative realm that has decorated and adorned Asia’s sacred spaces for thousands of years.  Inspired by the dramatic backdrop of snowcapped peaks, the imaginative expressions of the Nepali people are renowned throughout the ancient and modern world.  They have exported their traditions, techniques and styles throughout China, Tibet, Bhutan and India, and continue to influence modern mediums of representation and form.  Whether a self-proclaimed artist or simply an admirer of beauty, we invite you all to experience and participate in the rich tapestry of Nepali history, culture and landscape through these artistic lineages.

We begin our exploration in the heart of Nepal – the Kathmandu Valley – in the romantic city of Bhaktapur.  Built along the old trade route into Tibet, the cobblestone streets of Bhaktapur, still devoid of car traffic, expose us to the timelessness of Nepal.  Here, local artists introduce us to the outstanding lineage of Newari pottery, weaving, and woodcarving.  Outside the shop walls we marvel at the skillful craftsmanship and architecture of Bhaktapur’s sacred spaces, examining the spiritual and religious dimensions of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Shamanism manifest in its myriad temples and shrines.

Venturing out of the Kathmandu Valley, we head to Palpa, a medieval hill town perched high in the Himalaya, too steep for car traffic.  Living with local Newari families, we meander through its twisting streets, catching a glimpse of how creative techniques, styles, and art forms link together and breathe continuity into this diverse, rugged mountain environment.  We explore Palpa’s surrounding villages, temples, and sacred pilgrimage sites and prepare for a 5-day trek, starting from our doorsteps.  Hiking along trodden trade routes from remote village to village, through deeply gorged valleys and over dramatic mountain passes, we interact with rural Himalayan lifestyles, catching a glimpse of a past preserved.

Traveling out of this remote region, we return to the Kathmandu Valley to begin apprenticeships and home-stays in Patan.  Hailed “The City of Beauty,” Patan is an ancient Buddhist city scattered with temples and stupas framing its central square and lining its winding alleyways.  Living with Newari families, we learn from masters of pottery, Buddhist thangka painting, stone and wood carving, jewelry making, and silk weaving traditions.  Juxtaposing tradition with modernity, we meet with contemporary filmmakers and photographers, dancers and musicians, journalists and NGO workers.  Through these expressions, we gain particular insight into this exciting time for Nepal as it transitions from an ancient kingdom into a thriving modern democracy.  We engage within this community in service learning, working with organizations and schools that help support the heritage, knowledge, identity and the culture that has welcomed us into its homes and hearts.  We also meet with and listen to the teachings of spiritual leaders, discovering the interplay and witnessing the permeation of religious devotion and spirituality within all aspects of daily life.

We conclude our journey exchanging gifts, stories, and laughter.  With a final feast of delectable Nepali cuisine, we celebrate our mentors, families, and friendships, giving thanks for their warm hospitality and generous teachings.  We depart Nepal surrounded by beauty, with new mediums of creative expression to bring home, share, and display.