Nicholas Roerich Exhibition Opens in Kathmandu with a “Peace Through Culture” Message

Dragon Media News Desk

An exhibition of photographs of Nicholas Roerich’s paintings has opened in Kathmandu to mark the 152nd anniversary of his birth. Around 30 art lovers attended the opening on October 9.

The programme featured discussions on the life and contributions of Roerich, a Russian artist, writer, philosopher, explorer and public figure. Participants also reflected on his striking Himalayan landscapes and the connections between Russian and Himalayan cultures expressed through his art.

Roerich created around 7,000 paintings and wrote some 30 volumes of literary works. His mountain landscapes earned him the title “Master of the Mountains.” His well-known Himalayas series is held at the Museum of the East in Moscow and the Nicholas Roerich Museum in New York.

“Peace Through Culture” was central to Roerich’s vision. The Roerich Pact, based on the principle that cultural heritage must be protected in times of peace as well as during armed conflict, calls for the safeguarding of monuments, educational and scientific institutions, libraries and their staff.

Roerich also regarded his wife, Helena Roerich, as a friend and source of inspiration. Many of their paintings and public initiatives were the result of their joint creative work. The organisers said the Roerich family helped strengthen ties between Russia and Eastern countries through cultural exchange.

The exhibition continues a series of cultural events that began during the 150th anniversary year of Roerich’s birth. That year, the Russian House in Kathmandu and the Museum of Nepali Art presented “Tales of Two Worlds: Myths and Legends of Russia and Nepal.”